Zoya Akhtar's next film is a crime mafia drama

Salim-Javed’s influence on Zoya’s work

In an interview with Indian Express, Zoya discussed the influence of Salim-Javed’s writings on her own work.

“The fact that they (Salim-Javed) did not resort to cheap tricks, they were never vulgar. That influenced our work,” she said.

“There is a certain shade of grey, not everything fits together properly. I think that is reflected in my work, my characters are neither completely white nor completely black.”

Zoya's views on Salim-Javed's portrayal of women

Zoya also pointed out that Salim-Javed's films often feature strong female characters.

She cited Parveen Babi’s character in Deewaarwho is portrayed as a night worker with dignity.

“Even though they were stories in which men played the main role, none of the women were props. They all had a job, even if it wasn't explained in detail.”

“They didn’t decide to do it, it just happened,” she said.

“Angry Young Men” explores the iconic partnership of Salim and Javed

In related news: the upcoming Amazon Prime Video docuseries Angry young mendirected by Namrata Rao, will focus on the life and career of Salim-Javed.

The series also explores how the duo addresses gender dynamics in their writing and features interviews with Yash, Karan Johar, Salman Khan, Zoya, Farhan Akhtar and Amitabh Bachchan, among others.

It will land on the streamer on Tuesday.