Oscar-Winning Filmmaker Kevin Macdonald Eyes Shah Rukh Khan and PM Modi for Future Documentaries
Renowned filmmaker Kevin Macdonald, celebrated for his ability to peel back the layers of global icons, has set his sights on the Indian cultural and political landscape. In a recent discussion, the director, who recently chronicled the journey of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola in the documentary A Beautiful Obsession, opened up about his past, present, and future projects—including his interest in the Indian superstar Shah Rukh Khan.
The Mystery of the “King Khan” Project
Macdonald, who has directed high-profile projects ranging from intimate character studies to sweeping sports narratives, revealed that he previously held talks with Shah Rukh Khan regarding a potential documentary. While the project did not materialize at the time, the filmmaker remains deeply intrigued by the actor’s massive influence.
“He totally fascinates me,” Macdonald admitted. “I would like to do something about him and to understand why he is such a huge star, beloved by so many people. That really intrigues me.” With a touch of humor, he added, “Maybe he’ll read this and get in touch.”
Looking Toward the Political Sphere
When asked if other Indian figures caught his interest, Macdonald expressed a desire to explore the human side of one of the world’s most prominent leaders. He stated, “I’d love to make a film about Modi. I think, to see the human being behind the figurehead would be fascinating.”
The filmmaker emphasized that his primary goal in any biographical project—whether it be a celebrity or a politician—is to bridge the gap between the public persona and the private individual. “For me, [it’s about] how can you show the human being that we can all relate to in any great star or politician?” he noted, though he acknowledged that securing such a project would be a formidable challenge.
Lessons from the Cutting Room Floor
The interview also touched upon the unpredictable nature of documentary filmmaking. Macdonald candidly discussed a four-part series he produced about Oprah Winfrey, which was ultimately shelved after a “battle of control” regarding the final output. The experience served as a reminder of the complex relationship between subjects and storytellers in the world of non-fiction.
A Career of Variety
Currently promoting A Beautiful Obsession—a deep dive into Manchester City’s recent historic and turbulent years—Macdonald remains one of the industry’s most versatile directors. As he prepares to transition back to narrative features with The Runner, starring Gal Gadot, he maintains that the lines between fiction and non-fiction are fluid.
“I think they’re both two sides of the same coin; they’re both about telling stories, just using different tools,” he said. By treating his documentaries with the narrative urgency of a scripted drama, Macdonald continues to push the boundaries of how we perceive the world’s most influential figures.
