Amidst the glitz and glamour of Bollywood where urban metros like Mumbai serve as the staple backdrops for cinematic escapades, one film producer’s quest stands out for a change of scene. Producer Siddharth Anand, known for crafting visually spectacular action films, makes an intriguing demand for his latest motion picture venture—a request to break the mold and introduce audiences to a location yet to be discovered by the Bollywood lens.
After the successful portrayal of suave urban sprawls in hits like War (2019) and the recent box office smash Pathaan (2023), Anand yearns to cast the same magic but this time, far from the beaten path. His dedication to this ideal shines brightly as he gears up for an international shoot that promises to deliver not only adrenaline-pumping action but also the thrill of novel geographies.
The film in question, “Jewel Thief,” which also stars the talents of Saif Ali Khan and Jaideep Ahlawat, is preparing to shoot its second schedule in Mumbai from April 7, as was reported earlier. Staying true to the course, the shooting commenced on schedule, with Saif and Jaideep set to grace the set as planned. However, director Robbie Grewal initiated the process slightly ahead of time, starting with the supporting cast to ensure a seamless transition to the heart of the action.
In preparation for the impending international segment of the shoot slated for May, Grewal, alongside Anand, has been fine-tuning every detail to guarantee that the film’s significant action set-pieces encapsulate the producer’s vision. A source privy to the project’s developments shared, “Robbie had embarked on a European recce mission, and he has solidified choosing Georgia among several sites. It was imperious to secure territories that are far from overexposed in Bollywood productions. The international team has plunged into the preparatory phase with full vigor.”
While Mumbai provides a dynamic starting point for “Jewel Thief,” Georgia offers a canvas ripe with dramatic landscapes that have seldom greeted the Indian audience. From the rural vistas to the architectural marvels, this choice of locale aligns well with Anand’s ambition to keep providing cinema-goers with a feast for the eyes, alongside the cinematic exploits they relish.
Nikita Dutta, another stellar addition to the film’s cast, is part of the troupe that will transition from the bustling streets of Mumbai to the lesser-trodden paths in Georgia. As the Mumbai leg is set to conclude around April 25, the cast and crew are primed to commence the high-octane scenes and choreograph a musical number echoing within the Georgian aura.
The commitment to present uncharted landscapes is not just a notion of aesthetic appeal but serves as a testament to Bollywood’s expanding footprint. Given Anand’s penchant for spectacle and Grewal’s directorial prowess, “Jewel Thief” is shaping up to be a film that could possibly redefine the benchmarks for location scouting in the industry.
The coupling of riveting plotlines with distinctive terrains stands as the new horizon that Anand and his creative ensemble are steering toward. With expectations mounting, the film industry and audiences alike wait in anticipation for the tapestry of visuals and narrative that will unfold, showcasing a Georgia that whispers tales yet untold on the silver screen.
“Jewel Thief” is fast crystallizing into a cinematic experience that aims to transport viewers far beyond their imagination, driven by a producer who dares to venture where few have dared before in Indian cinema.
