I don't have control over releases: Alia Bhatt

You are missing from theatres.

  I have been missing from the theatres for quite some time now. I haven't had a release in quite some time now. In fact, it's more than a year now. My last film was Humty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya which was last year. So, Shaandar will be my first release this year and I can't wait for the film to hit the theatres.

So, you must have been relaxing a lot in the last few months.

No, not at all. I wasn't chilling but was in fact busy shooting for my other films. It's true that I haven't had a release in a while and this is my only release this year, which too is happening in the last month of October but it doesn't mean I was doing nothing. I was busy working and that's how I am enjoying life these days.

But don't you feel that you should have more frequent releases given that you are still quite new in this profession?

I agree that at times out of sight means out of mind but people remember an actor for his performance and not for the number of films they do. Moreover, the release of a film is not in the hands of an actor. At times there might not be a single release in 10 months and then suddenly three films release in six months. So, it's something that I don't have control over.

So what was the reason behind choosing a film like Shaandar?

It was the story. I believe that at this point I need to do a variety of roles to prove myself. So far I have done four films — Student of the Year, Highway, 2 States and Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya — and every film and role have been different from the other. Shaandar too is completely different. It is set in an entirely new space altogether. The film was like a new experience me. For all  these months I was in a mad, mad space. The best thing is that the film looks like a romcom from the trailers but it's also a deep and emotional love story.

The film is being directed by Vikas Bahl, who made Queen.

I have never been part of such a crazy world and the credit goes to Vikas. He is an amazing director and he knows what he wants from his actors. Shandaar is a film that I am proud of and I must thank Vikas for the way he has presented me in the film.

Shaandar is being called a destination wedding film.

There is more to it. You must watch the film for that. There are many fun moments but there is a different side to the entire tale. It has been beautifully shot and I am sure everyone will enjoy the film.

How was it working with Shahid Kapur?

(Smiles) I don't think anything more needs to be told about Shahid today. He is quite senior to me and has already proved how good an actor he is. The best thing about him is that he completely immerses into the character he plays and that's what makes him such a brilliant performer.

Do you discuss with your parents before choosing a film?

See, since I come from a family where people are from this industry we are bound to discuss films. Isn't that natural! But my dad (Mahesh Bhatt) was quite clear about a few things. He told me one thing: 'Do what your heart says', so I still maintain that. I choose films that I like. I discuss it with him after already having signed that film. If you really want to know, I am more close to my elder sister, Saheen, and I discuss everything with her. She is the one who suggests me and I really believe in what she says.

So, what are the kinds of roles you want to do?

I am trying to do as many different kinds of roles I can. This is the time to experiment. I am looking for variety. Even, I don't mind playing a negative character. But at the same time, I also have to keep in mind what the audience wants from me and in what kind of roles they would love to see me.