Restoring classics is like restoring heritage, says seasoned actor Farooque Shiekh, who regrets that many good films have perished, but at the same time he is happy over steps being taken to save other masterpieces like his film Chashme Buddoor.
One of the best classic comedies of all time, Sai Paranjpye-directed 1981 film Chashme Buddoor has finally been digitally restored. “It’s a pity that we haven’t restored many memorable films yet. Indian films are like a national heritage that reflects our society in various times,” Farooque told IANS.
“It’s like restoring a part of the heritage. The future generation will get to see how it was back then and will get a fair idea. I am happy that at least now we have started the registration process for such films. However, it saddens me that we haven’t restored many good films, which are a part of our cultural history,” he added.
The 65-year-old showed his acting acumen in a string of commercially successful and critically acclaimed films like Noorie, Saath Saath, Umrao Jaan, Bazaar, Katha and Biwi Ho To Aisi, among others.
The restored version of Chashme Buddoor, which marked one of his best performances so far, is releasing on April 5 along with its remake, which has been directed by David Dhawan, a director known for making super hit comedies like Hero No. 1 and Partner.
Never in the history of Indian cinema has a digitally restored version of a classic and its remake come out on the same day. The veteran actor, who was recently seen in Listen…Amaya, would like to first see Dhawan’s Chashme Buddoor, which features our very own Ali Zafar along with actors Siddharth, and Taapsee Pannu.
“I really want to see how David has made the film. I am also excited to see the restored print of Chashme Buddoor with an upgraded version and sound effect,” added the actor, who had teamed up with Deepti Naval, Rakesh Bedi and Ravi Baswani in the fun-filled movie.
A good comedy requires a strong script, he feels. “Double meaning or below-the-belt comedies are made when the script is not strong enough. So, if you have a strong script, you don’t need all these things,” adding that such films can’t be watched with families.
Not seen in too many films nowadays, Farooque finds acting satisfying. “For me, acting is very rewarding and a satisfying feeling on earth. I am blessed to be an actor. And what more can I ask for? I can only try harder and do better work. If given an option, I would like to be an actor in my next birth as well,” said the actor.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 3rd, 2013.
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