Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj, best known for his Shakespearean trilogy 'Maqbool', 'Omkara' and 'Haider', says he is fascinated by stories of human conflict.

In conversation with scientist-turned-filmmaker Bedabrata Pyne at Kolkata Literary Meet, Vishal said, "I always look for a story which could give me good human conflict (drama). My films and my subjects make very strong impressions on my cinematic vision. My genre has to be everyman's genre from 'Makdee' to 'Omkara' and 'Haider'."

The director said his actors know the space they have to work in and are familiar with their lines.

Vishal, whose 'Haider' was screened at Busan and Rome film festival last year, praised Irrfan, Saif Ali Khan, Tabu, Kay Kay Menon and others. "I choose not to direct my actors. I tell them," he said.


Vishal gave a thumbs up to the Indian tradition of filmmaking, saying films like 'Lunchbox' were made from time to time. He said Gulzar has always made a strong impact on his cinematic choices.