In a significant development for Indian cinema, eminent filmmaker Priyadarshan and Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar are set to reunite after a 14-year hiatus for the much-anticipated horror comedy ‘Bhoot Bangla’. Known for their successful past collaborations, the duo is once again sparking excitement and high expectations among audiences. As the reunion project gains momentum, Priyadarshan has shared his thoughts on the challenges and aspirations tied to this promising venture.
Speaking to PTI, Priyadarshan reflected on his long and successful partnership with Akshay Kumar, known for delivering box-office hits such as ‘Hera Pheri’, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’, ‘Garam Masala’, and ‘De Dana Dan’. The veteran filmmaker stressed the considerable challenge of living up to the audience’s high expectations. “Every film I’ve made with him has been a superhit. People say that I’m the reason Akshay (does comedy), but I don’t believe in all those things. What I did was exploit his sense of humor (on screen). We are working together after 14 years, and I hope things will work out. It’s a challenge. We can’t match the expectations (of the audience), but I’m trying my best,” Priyadarshan said.
The chemistry between the director and the actor has been a significant factor behind their hit comedies. Akshay Kumar, known for his versatility and impeccable timing, is described by Priyadarshan as a “director’s delight.” “He is a disciplined actor. After Amit ji (Amitabh Bachchan), he is one of the most dedicated actors, and he comes on time. He listens to the director,” Priyadarshan added.
As excitement builds around ‘Bhoot Bangla’, the horror comedy genre is expected to get a fresh and innovative twist from this dynamic duo. Priyadarshan’s return to the horror comedy genre also coincides with the upcoming release of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’, another popular franchise he originally directed.
. The first ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’, which released in 2007, starred Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan and became a massive hit, blending psychological horror with comedy.
The third installment of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’, directed by Anees Bazmee, promises to carry forward the legacy. Speaking about the franchise, Priyadarshan had words of praise for Bazmee. “Anees Bazmee did a good job with the second part of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’. I think he will do the third part well, too,” he acknowledged.
Scheduled for a Diwali 2024 release, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ features Kartik Aaryan and Triptii Dimri, with Vidya Balan making a comeback to reprise her iconic role as Manjulika. Kartik Aaryan shared his enthusiasm on Instagram, “And it’s happening. OG Manjulika is coming back to the world of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’. Super thrilled to welcome @balanvidya. This Diwali is going to be crackling! #BhoolBhulaiyaa3.”
Though Priyadarshan may not be directing the latest ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’ installment, his influence on the series remains profound. His original direction set the bar high with its perfect blend of horror and comedy, and helped shape the franchise into what it is today—a beloved series among fans and a significant cultural touchstone in Indian cinema.
The two projects—’Bhoot Bangla’ and ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’—mark an essential moment in the current landscape of Bollywood horror comedy. They underscore a renewed interest in the genre and the creative collaborations that have the power to captivate audiences. For Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar, coming together after more than a decade is not just a reunion; it symbolizes the rekindling of a synergy that once defined an era of successful filmmaking.
As the film industry continually evolves, the anticipation surrounding these projects suggests an enduring appeal for thoughtful, well-crafted stories that blend humor and horror. With Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar at the helm of this latest venture, fans can look forward to a film that aims to tickle the funny bone while sending shivers down their spines. Undoubtedly, expectations are sky-high, but if history is any indicator, this dynamic duo is more than capable of rising to the occasion.
