Luv Ranjan On The Need To Introduce Newcomers: ‘Where Will The Next Generation Of Stars Come From?’

Filmmaker Luv Ranjan has consistently backed fresh talent, from his directorial debut “Pyaar Ka Punchnama” to his upcoming film “Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar.” As he backs six young actors in his latest youthful romantic comedy, Ranjan talks about why the industry needs a new wave of actors every few years, the difference between wanting to be an actor and chasing stardom and why star power remains a potent force when combined with strong content.

From ‘Pyaar Ka Punchnama’ to ‘Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar,’ what is your philosophy behind backing new actors?

It’s simple: How will new stars or directors be created if no one gives them a chance? People took a chance on me when I didn't know anyone in this city. You have to pay it forward to create new talent. When people ask, "Why work with newcomers?" my answer is: "Why not?"

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What was the casting process for these six young actors in ‘Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar’?

We auditioned and cast them over a period of six to eight months. Most had some prior training. After casting, the workshops were primarily handled by the film's director, focusing mainly on script readings.

What was your main advice to the new faces cast in ‘Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar’?

I always tell newcomers to be very clear about why they entered the industry in the first place. Understanding the crucial difference between coming here to become an actor versus coming here to become a star is the most important thing for any new face.

Are newcomers today much more prepared than actors were in earlier generations?

Not in terms of intrinsic preparedness or talent — they are simply products of their time. Today's actors benefit from greater societal exposure, social media, and higher general awareness regarding casting and styling. However, while they have far more tools and information at their disposal than actors did 15 to 30 years ago, they also face significantly more distractions.

Don’t producers want to play it safe with casting given today’s unpredictable box office?

What is safe? No one can guarantee success today. Established stars can give you a ₹50 crore opening or an ₹8 crore opening depending on the content. But more importantly, if you don't bring in newcomers, where will the next generation of stars come from?

Is there a dearth of new stars today? Do we need more faces?

There’s no lack of talent, but every six to seven years you need a fresh wave of actors as current stars age. Unlike the 1990s when actors did multiple films a year, top stars today do one film every year or two. Having a reliable pool of new actors allows us to make more films.

On a personal level, I love working with new actors and new directors. Their energy is incredible — they’re passionate, resourceful, and ready to go to any length to make their first film special.

Do you agree that stars matter less today now that content-driven "sleeper hits" are dominating the box office?

No, sleeper hits have always existed. “Pyaar Ka Punchnama” happened 15 years ago and “Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety” happened eight years ago. While strong content is essential to win over audiences, stardom acts as a massive amplifier. A good film with non-stars will find its audience, but that same good film with a superstar becomes a record-breaking blockbuster. Stardom magnifies success.