Paresh Rawal on The Storyteller: ‘A privilege to be working with the master in a way’

Paresh Rawal says his upcoming movie, The Storyteller, is a special project for him as it is based on a story by master filmmaker Satyajit Ray.

Directed by actor-director Ananth Mahadevan, this one is presently showing at the 27th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). The Storyteller follows a wealthy businessman who hires a storyteller to help get over his insomnia. However, their relationship unfolds into another story with a twist.

The story is based on Ray's short fiction 'Golpo Boliye Tarini Khuro' and centres on the fascinating Tarini Khuro character he developed.

“I loved watching Satyajit Ray movies as a child. Before, Mumbai had three theatres: the Akashvani Theater in the city centre, the Chitra in Dadar, and the Amber-Oscar Theater in Andheri. In these theatres, I used to see Ray's movies. I've watched practically all of his movies.”

Paresh always wished he could have collaborated with a master like Satyajit Ray, but was unable to. “But as luck would have it. I have done a film based on a story written by the master himself. So it's a privilege for me to be working with the master in a way,” he said, in a statement.

The international premiere of the movie at the esteemed festival is a “double thrill” for the actor, who has won two National Awards. However, due to prior engagements, Rawal is unable to attend the festival.

“I am not the kind of person who goes to a premiere but for this particular film, I feel like I'm missing out. It's like a fish out of water. So it is my bad luck. It is the first festival of my life and I could not attend it,” the 67-year-old actor added.

The Storyteller stars Adil Husain, Tanishtha Chatterjee and Revathy.

“It is a relatable story. It is a tongue-in-cheek kind of thriller, a very smartly written story by Satyajit Ray saab. It is a profoundly layered story with characters, ethos and pathos. It's a very good package,” noted Rawal.

The Storyteller will compete at the BIFF for the prized Kim Jiseok award. Jio Studios, in collaboration with Purpose Entertainment and Quest Films, produced the movie. The fest will go on until October 14.