Chetan Bhagat's favourite movie adaptation of his novels? 'Kai Po Che!' as it was a hard film to make but beautifully done, says the author

Mumbai: Author Chetan Bhagat, who tried his hand at screenplay writing with the Salman Khan-starrer "Kick", says he may try donning the director's hat when he needs a new 'kick' in life.

In an interview, Bhagat has spoken about his tryst with screenplay writing, his new book and plans:

Q. "Kick" is your first attempt at screenplay writing. How would you sum up the experience?

A. I would say from start to finish, the experience gave me quite a kick! I had a chance to work in a very high profile project, with industry stalwarts and the biggest superstar. I also was out of my comfort zone and I learnt a lot from Sajid (Nadiadwala). I am glad I took on a new challenge and it reinvigorated me in some way.

Q. How different is your interpretation of the subject from the original Telugu film?

A. We liked the concept of the original, the story of a man who lives for his kick. However, we tried to add more scale, contemporary relevance, depth to characters, style and worked on the balance between plausibility and making a larger than life entertainer. Sajid Nadiadwala had a clear idea of what he wanted and the team helped him achieve it.

Q. How vital was it for you to keep in mind Salman Khan's stardom while writing the screenplay?

A. We were aware that it is a star vehicle, and we must make sure the fans are not disappointed. However, it may not be something that we thought of in every scene. Ultimately, we wrote a story that suited Salman.

Q. All your films have been adapted to the screen. Which of your novels' movie adaptations is your favourite?

A. That is a tough one to answer, but if I had to pick, I would say "Kai Po Che!". It was a hard film to make but was beautifully done.

Q. When do you intend to turn director?

A. Not anytime soon. I am getting enough kick from my writing for now. When I need a new kick, I will definitely consider it as an option.

Q. Finally, please tell me something about your next novel?

A. It will release in October. It is a rural-urban love story, and I am getting amazing feedback from the test readers.

Q. Why is it titled "Half Girlfriend"?

A. You have to read the book for that.