In an exclusive chat with IWM Buzz, the actor spoke openly about why the project is close to his heart, his experience working with filmmaker Neeraj Pandey, the changing face of storytelling on OTT platforms, and what fans can expect from him in the coming years.

Calling Taskaree a dream project, Emraan said that some stories stay with you the moment you hear them. For him, this series was one such project. “When I first heard the narration, I knew this was something special. The characters, the world, and the emotions felt very real,” he shared.
Working with Neeraj Pandey

Emraan also spoke highly about collaborating with Neeraj Pandey, known for films and series that focus on strong storytelling and realistic characters. He described Neeraj as a director who knows exactly what he wants but also gives his actors the freedom to explore.

“Neeraj sir is very clear with his vision. As an actor, that clarity helps you perform better. He trusts his actors and encourages honest performances,” Emraan said. He added that working on Taskaree pushed him creatively and allowed him to explore a different side of himself.

According to Emraan, the project demanded emotional depth and patience, especially given its long-form storytelling. “It’s not like a two-hour film. Here, you live with the character for a much longer time. That changes the way you prepare and perform,” he explained.

The OTT Shift and Changing Storytelling

Talking about OTT platforms, Emraan said that digital content has completely changed how stories are told in India. He believes OTT has opened the door to layered characters and complex narratives that were not always possible in mainstream cinema.

“OTT gives actors and writers more space. You can take your time building a character, showing flaws, and exploring grey areas. Audiences today are ready for that,” he said.

Emraan also pointed out that viewers have become smarter and more demanding. “People don’t want predictable stories anymore. They want something real, intense, and well-written. That’s where OTT shines,” he added.

For him, choosing projects now depends largely on the strength of the script. Whether it’s a film or a series, content comes first. “If the story excites me, the platform doesn’t matter,” he said.

Adapting to Long-Format Performances

“You can’t rush anything. Every scene matters because it builds towards something bigger,” he said. He also mentioned that this format allows actors to experiment more and connect with audiences on a deeper level.

With Taskaree, Emraan promises an intense and gripping performance. While he did not reveal many details, he hinted that the show will keep viewers hooked till the end.

Looking Ahead to 2026

When asked about his plans, Emraan revealed that 2026 will be an exciting year for him. He shared that he is currently reading scripts and looking for stories that challenge him as an actor.

“I want to do roles that scare me a little. That’s when I know I’m growing,” he said. With strong storytelling, a trusted director, and the freedom of OTT, the actor seems ready to surprise audiences once again.