In intriguing developments within the Bollywood film industry, celebrated director Sanjay Leela Bhansali is gearing up for his next magnum opus, titled ‘Love & War’. The film, which has already created a buzz amongst fans and cinephiles, will feature top-tier actors Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal in prominent roles. Announced earlier this January, this love-triangle drama is set against the intense and riveting backdrop of war.
Commencing the much-anticipated project, Bhansali will initiate the filming process with Ranbir Kapoor in early October. Kapoor’s character reportedly carries intriguing grey shades, promising a portrayal that could add nuanced layers to the wartime narrative.
Meanwhile, Vicky Kaushal is slated to join the shoot shortly after Ranbir. The filmmaker plans to shoot sequences that will highlight the bond and camaraderie between the characters. The chemistry between Kapoor and Kaushal is expected to be a focal point, adding depth to the narrative before Alia Bhatt joins the ensemble in December. Bhatt, currently wrapping up her commitment to the spy thriller ‘Alpha’, has allocated bulk dates exclusively for ‘Love & War’ until November.
A reliable industry source has revealed that Ranbir, Alia, and Vicky have earmarked over 200 days for Bhansali’s project, declining other offers until they wrap up their portions. The film, heralded as a colossal Christmas 2025 release by Bhansali himself, is envisioned to complete its shooting schedule by September 2025.
The industry eagerly awaits whether this ambitious timeline will be adhered to, as Bhansali is known for his meticulous and often time-consuming approach to film-making.
In other film industry updates, earlier this month, reports emerged that producer Dinesh Vijan had decided against attaching the trailer of his Akshay Kumar-starrer ‘SkyForce’ to ‘Stree 2’. Industry insiders now suggest a possible deferment of ‘SkyForce’s’ release from the proposed October 2 date. This move, reportedly, is intended to maintain a healthy gap between the multiple releases starring Kumar. Directed by Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani, ‘SkyForce’ also features Sara Ali Khan, Nimrat Kaur, and introduces Veer Pahariya. The release might potentially shift to the first quarter of 2025.
In the realm of comedy, the production team behind ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ dismissed speculations that the film might miss its Christmas 2024 release date. Directed by Ahmed Khan and produced by Firoz A.
. Nadiadwala, the project is proceeding as scheduled, with an international leg of pressing around the corner this October. The film, led by Akshay Kumar and backed by an ensemble cast, is reportedly 70% complete. The shoot is expected to finish promptly with the coming overseas schedule.
Meanwhile, actress Sanya Malhotra is on cloud nine as her performance in the film ‘Mrs’ received a standing ovation at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). Directed by Arati Kadav, ‘Mrs’ is an adaptation of the much-acclaimed Malayalam film ‘The Great Indian Kitchen’. Malhotra’s portrayal deeply resonates, as she drew from the real-life experiences of a close friend who underwent hardships similar to those shown in the film. Her commitment to bringing out stories that inspire women is apparent, and she expressed her intent to contribute towards change through her craft.
Celebrating the festive occasion of Krishna Janmashtami, the team behind the television show ‘Kaise Mujhe Tum Mil Gaye’ recently filmed a special Dahi Handi episode featuring lead actors Arjit Taneja and Sriti Jha. The scenes, infused with festive energy, saw a lively and joyous atmosphere on set. Taneja described the experience as exhilarating, stating that the festive spirit was palpable and left him with goosebumps.
On another note, actor Siddhant Chaturvedi is all set to reinvent his image with his upcoming project ‘Yudhra’. Moving away from his coming-of-age roles, Chaturvedi will be portraying an ‘angry young man’ under the direction of Ravi Udyawar. The film, co-starring Malavika Mohanan and Raghav Juyal, promises to be an action-packed spectacle. Backed by the powerhouse trio of Farhan Akhtar, Riteish Sidhwani, and Zoya Akhtar, ‘Yudhra’ is slated for a September 20 release.
Lastly, director Shiv Rawail’s ‘Alpha’ has entered its second shooting schedule in the picturesque locales of Kashmir. Alia Bhatt and Sharvari have reunited with the film’s team to continue the shoot after wrapping up initial scenes in Mumbai. Sharvari expressed her excitement, comparing her enthusiasm to a kid in a candy store. She emphasized her gratitude for being part of such a significant franchise early in her career, and the team anticipates an engaging and productive schedule ahead.
Bollywood is abuzz with dynamic projects and anticipated releases, making for an exciting season in the world of cinema.
