'I'm excited to work with Ameesha'

Ameesha Patel and Kuunal Goomer's maiden production project Paradise Street directed by David Dhawan goes on the floors shortly. As David begins preparations for the film, he fills in with the details of the project…

What made you choose Ameesha Patel Productions?
Ameesha is a dear friend. She is like a daughter to me. I have known her since she acted in my 2002 film Yeh Hai Jalwa opposite Salman Khan. Now that she has turned producer, I am happy for her.

How is it working with Ameesha as a producer?
It's great. I am extremely comfortable as I share a great rapport with her.

You have struck a great rapport with Kuunal too?
Yes, even though he is much younger to me, he is a pal now. I have had several meetings with Kuunal and realised that he is passionate about making films.

David Dhawan with Ameesha Patel and Kuunal Goomerat the opening of their production house office

Is it different working with young producers?
Nowadays it is the younger lot who are doing the best cinema. Things have drastically changed in the industry. The youngsters are bringing in new ideas and fresh thoughts to the filmmaking process. I'm excited to work with young producers like Ameesha and Kuunal.

Is Paradise Street a herocentric film?
It is a wholesome entertainer with equal footage to the lead characters.

How many lead actors are there in the film? Have they been finalised?
Apart from Ameesha, there will be two more heroes. We have not finalised them yet. We will begin narrations to the actors we plan to approach soon.

Is the scripting over for the film?
We are working towards the final draft of the script. We have had our share of brainstorming sessions.

Is it a period film?
I would prefer to say it is a costume drama. Niharika Khan is styling for the film. The story is such that it lends itself to distinct styling of the characters.

How is Ameesha as an actor?
She's amazing. I think she is in an extremely happy space now. She has a great time ahead as producer as well as actress.

You already have worked with her in a film with Salman Khan? How has she grown as an actor from that film to now?
That film was made 10 years ago, and obviously she has come a long way since then. She has emerged to be a fine actress whether playing glam roles or more traditional ones like in Gadar.

Is the film an out-an-out entertainer or a love story with drama. Or is it a new genre for you?
It is an entertainer with a dose of comedy. It will be the kind of film, I am known for making. But there will not be any double meaning, cheesy lines. It will be a wholesome entertainer with great music scored by Sajid-Wajid.

When do you see the film going on floors?
Very soon - - in the three to four months

Kuunal feels that films of today lack content and the ones that have the content normally stand out from the rest. Does your film also have content or a message. Or is it just an entertainer?
The film has a content and is an entertainer with a message. But it is not preachy, it is part of the story.u00a0