Amitabh Bachchan’s versatility as an actor has been showcased in numerous films throughout his career. One notable example is his portrayal of a 12-year-old child in the 2009 film ‘Paa, directed by R Balki. The film’s success can be attributed to Bachchan’s exceptional acting skills and the director’s innovative approach.
Overcoming Initial Doubts
R Balki recently shared the story of making Paa, revealing that he had initially considered abandoning the project. The director was concerned about depicting Amitabh Bachchan as a 12-year-old child, which led to multiple look tests. A professional from Los Angeles was brought in to work on Bachchan’s makeup, and extensive research was conducted on Progeria disease to ensure an accurate representation.
Camera Angles and Cinematography
Balki worked closely with cinematographer PC Sriram to achieve the desired look for Bachchan’s character. However, the initial attempts were unsuccessful, and the director was not satisfied with the results. The cinematographer experimented with various camera angles, but it wasn’t until they used a top-angle shot that the desired effect was achieved. This approach was used for all of Bachchan’s scenes in the film.
A Unique Family Dynamic
Paa featured a unique family dynamic, with Abhishek Bachchan playing the role of his father Amitabh Bachchan’s father. This was a first in Indian cinema, and R Balki’s innovative approach added to the film’s success. The film also starred Vidya Balan as Amitabh’s mother, and Jaya Bachchan appeared in the opening scene, setting the tone for the movie.
Award-Winning Performance
Amitabh Bachchan’s performance in Paa was widely acclaimed, earning him numerous awards and nominations. The film’s success can be attributed to the combined efforts of the cast and crew, who worked tirelessly to bring this unique story to life.