HOLLYWOOD BOLLYWOOD TELEVISION MUSIC FILM SEQUELS ARE GETTING BIGGER

Makers of successful films are roping in A-listers for their upcoming films in the series

When filmmakers decide to make a sequel to their hit films, they want it to reach new heights of success. And, an almost fool-proof formula is to rope in bigger stars, for there’s anyway interest in the script and A-listers in the cast will ensure a wider reach, thanks to their massive fan following.

Sonakshi Sinha joining the cast of Happy Bhag Jayegi Returns is the most recent example. Before that, it was announced that Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt are now a part of the successful franchises of Race, and Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster, respectively.

“With Sanju (how Sanjay is fondly called) coming on board, the franchise has become bigger, but the film was written keeping him in mind. Hence, he organically slips into the character of gangster,” says producer Rahul Mittra, whose third instalment of Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster has stirred the right buzz.

As for the Race franchise, actor Jacqueline Fernandez, who was part of Race 2 and also stars in the next film in the series, says, “Now that we have Salman on board and Remo D’Souza is directing, it will be exciting.”

Actor Maanvi Gagroo, who has been a part of films such as No one Killed Jessica (2011) and PK (2014), is excited about her role in the upcoming film, Tu Hai Mera Sunday, alongside Barun Sobti, Shahana Goswami and Vishal Malhotra.

Maanvi, who has earned popularity after starring in the web-series, Tripling, says it’s a slice-of-life drama, and that she enjoys the genre. “I understand it better. As an actor, it gives me more satisfaction. But, I’m a little scared of comedy, because I am not funny. I get nervous when I have to do such scenes in front of the camera!”

The actor says that small films have as much potential as big-budget movies to do well. Referring to the film, Newton, which has been selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars, Maanvi says, “There’s a wave going on [of such films doing well]. Stars can bring in the initial opening, but after a point, the film has its own life. Good content is taking the lead.”