Shakun Batra’s next, backed by Dharma Productions, could apparently release on Prime Video for a January 2022 premiere. The first trailer may coincide with the birthday of Deepika Padukone, the lead actor.
Co-starring Siddhant Chaturvedi, Dhairya Karwa and Ananya Panday, this OTT deal has come about due to the steamy scenes, which is perhaps why other major streamers like Hotstar and Netflix backed out. A source cites: “In Shakun’s film, Deepika plays a fitness trainer and shares screen space with both Siddhant Chaturvedi and Ananya Panday. Now, the film is based on an extramarital affair that complicates the relationship between Deepika and Ananya’s characters who are sisters. Apparently, the film contains a rather high amount of intimate scenes that will not go down too well with the censor board. And editing out the scenes will greatly impact the film overall.”
The source adds: “The OTT domain currently has more relaxed rules when it comes to on-screen intimacy, which pushed the makers to opt for a direct to OTT release over a conventional theatrical release.”
According to close sources, it will be interesting to see if the story has a mental health angle, owing to the extra-marital affair angle and bold theme. Filme Shilmy also learns that the film also includes solid supporting actors like Naseeruddin Shah.
Going by media reports, Deepika was quite sceptical regarding the digital release. Sources also claim she has been given 30 crores as remuneration instead of just an 18 crore plus profit share. The film is almost complete and one shooting schedule for some remaining patchwork. Overall, it should all be complete by this month.
Deepika has a busy slate of upcoming ventures including her cross-cultural Hollywood production, The Intern, Pathan, Project K and Cirkus (special appearance). She also has a cameo in 83 (also on board as co-producer).
Siddhant too has a promising lineup of movies including Yudhra, Phone Bhoot and Kho Gaye Hum Kahan (with Ananya once again). Rumour has it that he could also be seen in Jee Le Zaraa alongside Farhan Akhtar, though this is yet unconfirmed.
Ananya will be seen in Liger with Vijay Deverakonda amongst several titles. More developments on Shakun’s next to follow soon.
