Farhan Akhtar plans to make up for all the lost time to his near and dear ones

His last film may have raked in mixed reviews, but according to Farhan Akhtar his two daughters simply loved his film. And the director-turned-actor admits he prefers to `hang out` with his girls before the release of his movies, as their presence injects a heady dose of enthusiasm into him. An excerpt:

You missed out on family time when you were busy preparing for your last film.
Working on this film not only demanded a lot of hard work, I also ended up upsetting my friends and family. But when they saw the film and liked it, it said it all.


And your daughters?
My younger daughter (Akira) hasn't seen the film but the older one (Shakya) saw and loved it. She got very excited on seeing the races and all but got very disturbed by some sequences like the slapping scene.

When you see your father being slapped, it disturbs you. I had to explain her that it's a film and not real. They have enjoyed my other films like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Rock On!! and Dil Chahta Hai.

They are my most biased critics. I like to spend time with them before the release of my films as I find it very encouraging.


Did you let go of other projects just for this film?
To be honest, I didn't meet anyone. I had to see through Don 2's release and travel for the promotions while I was training for the film. I had to also oversee the shoot of Fukrey. I categorically stayed away from reading any other script or meeting people for other films.


Will your next project have you acting or directing?
At this point in time, I am truly enjoying the experience of acting. For the time being, this is what I want to do, till when I decide it's time to don the other hat.

Have you started work on the third installment of Don?
The script needs to be in place before pre-production. I keep hearing buzz about the next installment myself. But some things need to come together. I am not averse to the idea of doing it. But am I actually working on Don 3 right now? No.


Is another film with Shah Rukh Khan on the cards?
I don't think it's going to be just one movie. He is someone with whom I feel I have had a great time working and it's gone beyond a working relationship. We are fast friends. There are many films being made and hopefully he will be in one of them.


You have a boring image and you avoid talking about your alleged link-ups. Why?
This is who I am. Nowadays, it's impossible to go anywhere without four people standing outside the gate. Everyone knows what you are up to and what you are interested in. I love hanging out with my friends. I also enjoy my privacy with my family and that's our space.