Andaaz Apna Very Hatke is a 20-minute film that will be shot live at Mumbai’s MMRDA complex with an ensemble cast of first timers, aspiring actors and young producers eager for a break. The idea struck Channel V after the celebration of their 13th birthday when they hired youngsters to shoot the entire proceedings. Says Amar K Deb, head honcho, Channel V, “We hired youngsters to shoot videos for our birthday bash. From there, we thought of having a film featuring amateur actors done in a live format.”

The auditions for the roles were carried out over a span of three weeks across India by conducting screen tests. “We wanted to see who had the spunk and the right attitude to fit into a demanding role. Neha Dhupia plays the lead actress. There will also be an action star from Hollywood, whom we will reveal on the day of the film screening itself,” says Deb. The film will be shot and streamed live on TV on March 2. The crew plans extensive rehearsals before taking the plunge, live.

For proof that the film is shot live, there will be an audience who will witness the shooting of the film. “We have set up six sets at the venue and there will be a red carpet in front of each set from where people can view actual camera edits as well as see the shoot. A crew of 20 cameramen and 50 cameras will be shooting this entire project,” says Sudhir Sheetal, a producer on the movie. Since nothing similar to this has ever been attempted, it brings along some of its own challenges. “While shooting a normal film one can say ‘cut’ but here the job of the director finishes once he says action,” explains Deb. Even the camera crews need to work in tandem with actors to avoid any goof ups. Rehearsals are crucial.”

The producers are in talks to release the film through cinema halls across the country. Interesting idea but will it work?