‘Go and fall in love’

The story, says Aziz Mirza, is critical to a film. You can throw in the stars, special effects, songs and dances, but the film will not work if it does not have a good, tight story. The director of Chalte Chalte, Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, Yes Boss and Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman should know that for sure.

In Dubai for the world premiere of Kismat Konnection, his latest offering, Mirza talks about Shahid-Vidya, Imran-Harman - and, of course, kismat.

What is the role of kismat in your life?

It has a very important role. My father told me when I was young, "If you believe in kismat you're a b***** fool". At my age, I know if I don't believe in kismat, I'm a b***** fool. I directed my first film at 50. At 66, I'm still making films. What do you call this but luck? I was working on something else when my daughter brought me this story. I chose to go with this film. Again, that's kismat, right?

Why did you choose Shahid to play the hero?

My films don't have high voltage drama or action. It requires a normal type of hero, someone who's a very good actor. I think Shahid is an excellent actor. And remember, I signed him when there was no Vivaah, no Jab We Met.

What about Vidya?

Just like Shahid, she's a tremendous actress. I saw her in Parineeta and Munnabhai...Both of them are also very good people.

There's been plenty of talk about Shahid-Vidya as a couple. What did you think?

I say, if you're not in love, please go and fall in love (laughs)! If not with each other, then find someone that you like and fall in love with them. Nothing is more precious than you being with the right person in life.

What is most important in a film?

The story, always the story. No amount of special effects can replace an interesting storyline. You must tell a story that the audience can relate to and you must tell it compellingly. I've always tried to do that in my films.

Who do you think has more potential, Imran Khan or Harman Baweja?

Every young actor comes in with potential. It all depends on the roles he gets and the directors he works with.

Which of your own films is your favourite?

Like every parent, I love the child who didn't do well most. So that's Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani. Now I realise I should have taken the satire out and used more realism.

Fave 5

Heroine - Juhi Chawla

Film - Godfather

Director - Francis Ford Coppola and Frank Capra

Music director - AR Rahman (current fave), RD Burman (all-time fave).

Hobby - Sitting in a coffee shop and just looking at people. Every face can give you a character!