I have made Jal for the masses, says director

Not many Indian films manage to make the cut in the competition section at the Busan International Film Festival. But director Girish Malik’s Jal has managed that feat as his internationally acclaimed film is the only one from India to feature in the competition at the event.

Not many Indian films manage to make the cut in the competition section at the Busan International Film Festival. But director

Girish Malik’s

Jal has managed that feat as his internationally acclaimed film is the only one from India to feature in the competition at the event. "Jal is a human story and human emotions are the same everywhere. It has larger-than-life visuals and an epic feel — all ingredients that would appeal to the Indian audience," says Malik.

An entertainer with a soul that has high-octane action drama, Malik says the journey of the film has been very satisfying, yet painful. "I believe cinema should reach the audience. I have woven the water issue in a colourful tapestry of life, love and human emotions such as greed, jealousy and betrayal that lead to a shocking climax. I have made Jal for the Indian masses," he adds.

"What has also impacted my film-making style is the fact that I have delved into various crafts. I was a state-level gymnast, a semi-classical, folk and jazz ballet dancer and I’ve also acted in theatre for years. I have also travelled extensively all over the world. All those experiences reflect in Jal," says Malik.

Starring

Purab H Kohli

, Kirti Kulhari, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Saidah Jules,

Mukul Dev

, Yashpal Sharma and Ravi Gossain, among others, Jal, a OneWorld Film Production, is being distributed by DAR Film Distributors and is slated to release on April 4.