Imtiaz Ali, director of films such as Socha Na Tha, Jab We Met, Love Aaj Kal, and Highway, among others, believes he cannot continue to tell stories about women gaining agency. The film director is frequently questioned about how he writes female characters in his films.
Imtiaz recently told Vice that he is “fascinated by women for having been in a role that is more repressed and disadvantaged than men, and yet having that smile and grace on their faces.” He went on to say that women are “smarter than men” in every way.
Using his film Highway, starring Alia Bhatt, and his web series She as examples, he stated that both stories are about “women finding their agency.” But, as Imtiaz pointed out, “not every story has to be about a woman finding the agency.” Why am I not allowed to mix stories of different natures, or do they have a different meaning? I’m not here to tell people how to live their lives.”
Ranbir Kapoor, who worked with Imtiaz Ali on Rockstar and Tamasha, stated in 2011: “He’s well read.” He comprehends the complexities and dynamism of interpersonal relationships. He understands women very well, in an accurate and realistic manner.”