Casting Director Shivam Gupta on Realistic Casting

Casting is one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of filmmaking. While actors and directors get much of the spotlight, the work of a casting director determines whether a story feels authentic, relatable, and emotionally powerful. Recently, acclaimed casting director Shivam Gupta shared his perspective on this craft in an interview about his work on the film Haq, highlighting why he believes in casting real people rather than simply polished performers.

In the socio-legal drama Haq, starring Yami Gautam Dhar and Emraan Hashmi, Shivam’s casting philosophy took center stage. The film is inspired by the landmark Shah Bano case and explores its emotional and social weight. According to Shivam, the film required depth and honesty — not just from its lead actors, but from every role, no matter how small.

A Casting Brief Rooted in Emotional Truth

When director Suparn S. Varma narrated the story of Haq to Shivam, he immediately recognized its emotional heft. Instead of thinking about popular performers, Shivam focused on the heart of the narrative. “The brief was simple yet powerful,” he explained. “We want real people, not performers.” According to him, the film lived in its emotional truth, and every casting decision had to reflect that from the inside out.

This approach speaks to the core of what casting directors do: not just matching faces to roles, but finding individuals who can embody the emotional essence of a character. For Shivam, this meant focusing on authenticity — honoring the narrative’s emotional complexity rather than prioritizing celebrity appeal.

Casting the Leads: Emotional Depth Over Theatrics

When discussing Haq’s lead cast, Shivam offered detailed insights into why each actor was chosen. Emraan Hashmi, he said, possesses a “natural intensity that cannot be taught,” with a presence that carries emotional unpredictability — the kind needed for his role in the film. Similarly, Yami Gautam Dhar was chosen for her rare ability to combine vulnerability with strength, delivering a nuanced performance that aligned with the film’s tone.

Shivam’s belief that casting is more than performance reflects a shift in how filmmakers are valuing realism. It underscores a deeper understanding that strong performances come not just from skill, but from inner emotional resonance with the story itself.

Every Role Matters, Big or Small

One of the most profound aspects of Shivam’s casting philosophy is his commitment to honoring every role, regardless of screen time. He believes that a film’s overall emotional fabric is built moment by moment — and every actor contributes to that. “No role is small and no actor is secondary,” he says. For him, finding the right person for each part means discovering voices who bring something unique and irreplaceable to the story.

This belief prioritizes inclusivity and respect for all contributors to a film. Each character, whether seen in one scene or many, plays a part in shaping audience engagement and narrative impact.

Beyond Casting: A Broader Creative Vision

While casting remains his primary focus, Shivam Gupta has also stepped into film production, backing projects like Laar (2023), Rhino Charge, Two Sinners (2024), and Songs of Forgotten Trees (2025). He describes his creative journey as one driven by honesty and intention — a desire to tell stories that stay with audiences after the credits roll.

His work, both as a casting director and a producer, reflects a commitment to storytelling that honors humanity and emotional truth. Whether through courtroom dramas or deeply personal narratives, Shivam continues to push boundaries and shape stories that resonate on a deeper level.

Honesty, Consistency, and the Journey Ahead

Originating from a modest background in Agra, Shivam views his ascent in the film industry not as a triumph but as a testament to dedicated effort and sincere intent. He believes that when your intentions are honest and your effort consistent, the industry will eventually recognize your work. This outlook not only informs his casting choices but also shapes his evolving creative vision.

In a time when the film industry increasingly values authenticity, Shivam Gupta’s focus on real emotional truth and meaningful storytelling sets him apart as a casting professional with both insight and heart.

🔗 FEATURED MEDIA COVERAGE

Read the original coverage published by The Times of India, where casting director Shivam Gupta shares insights on authentic casting for Haq.

👉 Read Full Article on Times of India

Casting Director Shivam Gupta on Realistic Casting and Creating Emotional Truth in Film

A Casting Brief Rooted in Emotional Truth

Casting the Leads: Emotional Depth Over Theatrics

Every Role Matters, Big or Small

Beyond Casting: A Broader Creative Vision

Honesty, Consistency, and the Journey Ahead

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