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Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has opened up about the response to his latest directorial 'Bandar', starring Bobby Deol , Sanya Malhotra, Sapna Pabbi, and Saba Azad. While the crime thriller has been praised by many for its performances and storytelling, it has also faced criticism from a section of viewers over its treatment of certain themes.

Speaking about the controversy, Anurag Kashyap revealed that the version released in theatres was not the one he had intended audiences to watch. He explained that editorial changes altered the film's perspective, making it difficult for him to defend the final product. The filmmaker also disclosed that he consciously stayed away from promoting the film after its release.

Anurag Kashyap says the released version was not his final cut

During a conversation with Kunal Kamra on the comedian's YouTube channel, Kashyap explained why he had earlier advised Kamra not to watch the film. He also revealed why he chose not to participate in promotional interviews for 'Bandar'. Sharing his thoughts, the filmmaker said, "When I said don’t watch, it’s because I can’t own up… If you noticed, I didn’t give any interviews on the film. Because whatever came out is not my final cut. So, the criticisms that came the movie’s way are quite valid. It became kind of lopsided. Because I wanted to put out something I could stand up for. As a result, I couldn’t stand up against the criticisms against the movie."

'Bandar' director opens up about changing dynamics of filmmaking

Anurag Kashyap also discussed why directors often struggle to retain complete authority over the final version of their films. According to him, legal agreements alone do not always guarantee that a filmmaker's preferred cut will eventually be released. He explained that when projects are delayed and production costs continue to rise, studios often assume greater control over decision-making. In such situations, financial considerations can take priority over creative choices, leaving directors with limited influence over the finished product. Reflecting on the industry's evolution, he said, "Unlike before, things have become corporatised today. It’s not like all producers are making movies by mortgaging their houses or because they believe in the work. Some are making just to ensure that their movie is a success." Anurag Kashyap further observed that only a handful of major production houses now dominate the industry, making it increasingly difficult for independent films to find timely releases.

Kashyap explains how editing changed the film's perspective

The filmmaker also elaborated on how changes made during editing affected the narrative. While he clarified that he directed and shot the material himself, he maintained that removing certain portions significantly altered the film's intended viewpoint. He said, "Those who could see my intention, they didn’t need to watch it, because they already know what’s being shown. The problem is with those who don’t know what it’s about and they need to watch it to understand the perspective. Only those who aren’t self-aware get carried away; or those who aren’t aware of what goes on. Those who are aware won’t have a problem; they will dismiss it right away. Cinematically, everything else (in Bandar) is pretty much mine… but they changed it by taking something out. Thus, the perspective has been changed. The tilt has changed a little bit. Whatever was there, was made by me. I shot it. But what they have edited out, has really affected the outcome." According to Kashyap, those editorial decisions ultimately changed the message he wanted the film to convey.

'Bandar' remains a talking point

Inspired by real-life events, 'Bandar' marks Anurag Kashyap's return to direction after a gap and features Bobby Deol, Sanya Malhotra, Sapna Pabbi, and Saba Azad in key roles. Meanwhile, Bobby Deol's latest release 'Jana Nayagan', starring Vijay in the lead, has hit the big screens.