Director Tinnu Anand first worked with Bachchan on the masala potboiler Kaalia. Then they teamed up on the gimmicky Shahenshah, with AB playing a midnight messiah, sporting elaborate costume and hairdo.

Their next innings together was the Indianised version of Meet John Doe: Main Azaad Hoon. The film was not a commercial success, but won good reviews for Bachchan's spontaneous performance.

Anand last directed him in Major Saab. Alas, the film met with lukewarm response at the BO.