John Abraham on his next production and making thought-provoking films

With the kind of response his debut home production is garnering, John Abraham is one happy guy. The actor-producer recently confessed that directing a movie is his ultimate dream.

But as of now, he's keen on continuing with making films. In a candid conversation, he shares with us his experience as well as the change in his views after wearing the producer's mantle.

First of all, would you call yourself a contemporary filmmaker?
It's too early for that but yes, I'm moving in that direction. I'm going to make films that are meaningful as well as entertaining. I guess Vicky Donor has set the benchmark for me.

Were you expecting such a positive reception?
Even before we started with the project, I knew this would work. The script was mind-blowing and fresh. As we proceeded, everything fell into place.

How was your experience as a producer for the first time?
The things you don't notice as an actor, you're compelled to notice as a producer. There are so many factors that go into grind while making a movie. You learn a lot.

And the greatest lesson you learnt...
I've understood it's important to marry content with commerce. Every single input has to be purposeful and well integrated to deliver a good product.

You ended up doing an item number for this movie — something you haven't done before.
As a producer, I have to drive the film but I shouldn't interfere either. So the best option to grab eyeballs was to do an item number.

What's the story behind casting Ayushmann Khurrana?
The credit goes to Shoojit (Sircar, director). He suggested him as we were looking for someone cute who could carry off this Punjabi munda role. And Ayushmann proved us right!

What will you be producing next?
A dark comedy with Kunal Roy Kapoor. It will be directed by Aditya Bhattacharya who made Raakh with Aamir Khan.

And finally, when are you going to tie the knot?
All I can say is my relationship is very stable at this moment and I think I'll keep quiet. But when the time comes, I'll let you know. (smiles)