If all goes as per plan, Bollywood would just about be making a record of utmost selection of sequels/franchises/prequels releasing this winter. Eventually count, as many as four such films are slated for release within the last five weeks of the year. With more films already in production, this number could go up. The person seeing all such competition building around himself? Salman Khan.
"First sequel to be announced for winter release was after all Salman Khan's Dabangg 2, shooting of that's starting this month. However, slowly but steadily, many other films have stepped within the fray to boot. These are Race 2, Aashiqui 2 and the latest entrant Shootout At Wadala. There are going to be numerous 'familiar' films that audience could be exposed to this winter", says an industry insider.
Traditionally last quarter of the year is thought of as to be essentially the most lucrative period for Bollywood because of the holiday season that kick starts with Diwali. Now it's obvious that Bollywood is betting its money on those films that enjoy an excellent track record. The truth that these are star studded affairs only makes them the primary choice for all involved.
"Salman is at his career peak and life should get back full circle for Dabangg 2. Obviously it's the hottest film of the year and can be just perfect for the cold season. At the other hand, with Deepika returning to Race 2, the film has regained its star value. For the reason that prequel was much appreciated, stocks are high for Race 2, especially with Saif, Anil Kapoor, John Abraham and Jacqueline leading from the front", a trade veteran adds.
Meanwhile Bhatts' franchise Aashiqui 2 is touted to be the most important musical of the year. Although its cast is yet to be finalized, work has already begun on its music. A source from the production house informs, "Mahesh and Mukesh Bhatt know that they've an enormous challenge to do something that fits as much as Nadeem-Shravan's score in Aashiqui that was composed TWO DECADES back. They must match it on the least, if not better it."
However, the only which has arrived impulsively and is now carrying a burden of large expectations is Sanjay Gupta's comeback affair Shootout at Wadala. A prequel to Shootout At Lokhandwala, the film's huge cast led by Anil Kapoor, John Abraham and Kangna Ranaut has just been announced.
"Just like Yash Chopra, even Ekta could be very particular about her announcements. Now that she has declared her intentions to release the film in December, Sanjay too is operating backwards to make this happen", adds an insider, "The film is arriving in between Race 2 and Dabangg 2 however the makers aren't deterred with the competition."
Good for the audience who're ready to enjoy this quartet of sequels/prequel/franchise which are prepared to realize further hype because the year progresses. Guess how Salman is considering this though.
