Anurag Kashyap Says 'Bandar' Wasn't His Final Cut, Calls Criticism of Film 'Quite Valid'

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has said that the version of his latest film Bandar released in theatres was not his final cut, adding that criticism directed at the film was "quite valid" because editorial changes altered his intended vision.

Speaking during a conversation on comedian Kunal Kamra's YouTube channel, Kashyap explained that he chose not to actively promote the film because he did not fully identify with the version that audiences ultimately watched.

"I Couldn't Own the Released Version"

Recalling an earlier conversation in which he advised Kamra not to watch the film, Kashyap explained that his hesitation stemmed from creative differences over the final edit.

According to the filmmaker, he deliberately avoided giving promotional interviews because the theatrical version did not reflect the film he originally intended to present.

He said the criticism the film received was understandable, as the released version differed significantly from his vision.

Studio Edits Changed the Film's Perspective

Kashyap said that although he directed and shot the film, subsequent editorial decisions changed its overall narrative and emotional impact.

He argued that removing key portions of the film altered its perspective, resulting in a version that felt "lopsided."

According to Kashyap, these changes made it difficult for him to defend the film against criticism, as he no longer felt it accurately represented his creative intentions.

Concerns Over Creative Control

Discussing the broader issue of creative freedom, Kashyap said directors often struggle to retain control over the final cut once production reaches the studio stage.

He noted that contractual provisions can become less effective when production delays increase costs and films become financial liabilities.

According to him, studios may ultimately decide which version of a film is released, particularly when commercial considerations outweigh creative preferences.

Film Industry Becoming More Corporate, Says Kashyap

The filmmaker also reflected on changes within the Hindi film industry, saying that increasing corporatisation has reduced creative flexibility for directors.

He suggested that many production houses now prioritise commercial outcomes, while independent filmmakers face fewer options and longer release delays because studios manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Audience Response to Bandar

Despite the controversy, Kashyap said he was encouraged that some viewers understood the themes he had intended to explore.

He maintained that the film's visual style remained his own but reiterated that editorial changes had significantly affected the final outcome.

The filmmaker said this was one of the reasons he chose not to publicly defend the criticism directed at the released version.

About the Film

Bandar features an ensemble cast including:

• Bobby Deol
• Sanya Malhotra
• Sapna Pabbi
• Saba Azad
• Indrajith Sukumaran
• Raj B. Shetty
• Jitendra Joshi

The film's cinematography was handled by Saiyed Shaaz Rizvi, while Aarti Bajaj served as the editor.

Key Highlights

• Anurag Kashyap said the theatrical version of Bandar was not his final cut.
• He accepted that criticism of the film was "quite valid."
• Kashyap revealed he avoided promoting the film because it no longer reflected his vision.
• He said studio edits significantly changed the film's perspective.
• The filmmaker also expressed concern over growing corporate influence in the film industry.
• Bandar stars Bobby Deol, Sanya Malhotra and several other actors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did Anurag Kashyap not promote Bandar?

He said the version released in theatres was not his final cut, so he chose not to actively promote it.

What did Anurag Kashyap say about the criticism of the film?

Kashyap said the criticism was "quite valid" because the released version differed from the film he originally intended to make.

Why does Kashyap believe the film changed?

According to him, studio edits removed important portions of the film, altering its perspective and overall impact.

What did he say about creative control?

He said directors often lose control over the final cut once studios make commercial decisions during the post-production process.

Who stars in Bandar?

The film features Bobby Deol, Sanya Malhotra, Sapna Pabbi, Saba Azad, Indrajith Sukumaran, Raj B. Shetty and Jitendra Joshi.

Where did Anurag Kashyap make these remarks?

He shared his views during an interview on Kunal Kamra's YouTube channel.