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September 9, 1998
BILLBOARD
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Zanjeer II
Zanjeer, for those too young to remember, was the film that brought Bachchan to pre-eminence, giving Amitabh the "angry young man" image. It also made Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar the hottest scriptwriters in town. But Prakash Mehra, who made more humdingers with Amitabh, went off to make Bengali films in Calcutta when his hero took a long sabbatical from cinema. But now that Amitabh is back in business, Mehra is planning the sequel. And the idea has really rejuvenated the legendary director. "It's in the planning stages. I've spoken to Ajitabh about this. Amitabh knows about this but he's not been able to meet me because two of his films are being readied for release." Now the question is, how will he frame the story for the ageing cast. But Mehra's managed perfectly well before. No reason why he shouldn't now.
Poonam's return
Now the two are divorced -- amicably we might add, and without the linen-washing considered de rigeur in the industry -- and Poonam is all set to write her first book. The question is what she'll write about. And the details aren't forthcoming. She is also expected to take up acting again, though the lady herself hasn't indicated that either. But her fans are waiting, and hoping to be watching too.
The cameras finally roll
And if there were doubts that it would be changed again, you'd be glad to know the film has finally started rolling -- and there appears to be no going back. And the film, as we said, stars Sunil Shetty and Jackie Shroff too. Anu Malik provides the music, Javed Akhtar the lyrics. Dutta is very secretive about his film for the moment. He isn't disclosing the subject though. Ask him any question and you will receive a fax with the J P Films letterhead clarifying that "It's not a war story, or a love story, it's a human story." Now you'd never have thought of that, would you?
Perfection rules London
But, according to his artistes, he is doing a great job, and, to boot, is a pernickety perfectionist. And, following in the tradition of good friend Raj Kumar Santoshi, he's reshooting a large portion of the movie. Even two songs picturised on the lead pair were shot again. Even the songs were re-recorded to give them more life. But perfectionism, Sunny should realise, is a costly pastime. And a lot has been spent on this film already.
Angling for Ajay
The PRO confirmed that negotiations were on with Ajay regarding the deal, and that an announcement would be made soon. The only question at the moment appears to be what subject Ajay will prefer. But to get his sign will be more difficult. For the man has those cricketing assignments in Kuala Lumpur and then in Zimbabwe to complete.
The mascot
Only trouble is that people aren't certain Mother 98 will be released in 1998. Maybe the musical mascot'll help...
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-- V S Srinivasan | |||||||||||||
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