Drama has been diluted in Bollywood: Milan Luthria

Filmmaker Milan Luthria, who has made commercially successful films like The Dirty Picture and Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, says the concept of drama has been diluted from the narrative used in Bollywood over time.

"Drama has reduced (from Bollywood films). Heroes' machoism, heroines' elegance and the fear of villains have been diluted. International cinema is also going towards period drama. Being larger than life appeals to me personally," Luthria says. ​"Audience doesn't look at the period that the film is set in, but at the story," he adds.

The Dirty Picture and Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai were set in the 1970-1980s. Luthria's forthcoming directorial venture Baadshaho is also set 1970, against the backdrop of the Emergency. "I don't have a fixation with the period; it is a coincidence," he says.

Baadshaho narrates the fictional story of six people who try to bring a change in their destiny by pulling of a heist. Luthria was in Delhi for the promotion of the film with the star cast including Ajay Devgn, Emraan Hashmi, Esha Gupta and Ileana D'Cruz. 

The film marks the fourth collaboration of Luthria with Ajay. They had earlier worked for Kachche Dhaage, Chori Chori and Once Upon a Time in Mumbai. The film is set to release on September 1.

Ajay says that their bond has become stronger--personal and professional--over time. "Our friendship is not just from the last 18 years, or from the time of Kachche Dhaage. It's older than that," says the actor, who goes on to add, "We don't need to discuss much about our requirements. There is a comfort zone. I know what Milan wants, and he knows how will I perform."