After the sucess of The Dirty Picture, there were rounds of speculations that Balaji Motion Picture’s favourite, Vidya Balan will be playing the romantic lead opposite John Abraham in Sanjay Gupta’s multi-starrer Shootout At Wadala. But in a sudden twist of events, Balaji has reverted to its original choice, Kangana Ranaut, who last worked for the production house in Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai (2011). An industry insider reveals, “When Balaji spoke to Kangana about the film, she agreed immediately because she has the highest regard for the company.” This is the first time that John and Kangana will be seen opposite each other on the big screen.
KangnaTanuj Garg, CEO of Balaji Motion Pictures, confirms the news, “Yes, Kangana has been approached. The film is becoming bigger each passing day.”Apparently, director Sanjay Gupta’s first choice was Vidya. “The role is not of a glam doll, or about doing item songs. It’s a very serious role based on a non-fictional character,” says Gupta, adding, “I had written keeping Vidya in mind, but post The Dirty Picture, her priorities have changed, which I completely respect and admire. After Vidya, the obvious first choice was Kangana”
Sanjay believes that Kangana also has a huge potential as an actor. “She is someone whom I have seen growing from film to film. I feel that the films she did, couldn’t do justice to her role. She is not just a glam doll but also a powerhouse performer,” says Sanjay, adding, “I am glad that even if I am working with her for the first time, I am going to her with a character that has a huge scope of performance and not just song and dance.”
Giving a sneak peek of Kangana’s character, he says, “It’s very reminiscent of the roles that Smita Patil played in Shakti (1982) and Namak Halal (1982). Her characters were glamorous, yet very subdued and underplayed. This role is in that kind of space. It’s a very tough one.” Besides John, Anil Kapoor and Tusshar have also been confirmed in pivotal roles in the film. A host of other names are being considered for the mega project, which is expected to go on floors in March and release in December.
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