Latest news with #BhoolBhulaiyaa2
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Bollywood turns cold on new directors: Fewer debut filmmakers in theatres
Hindi film producers have grown increasingly risk-averse over the past three-and-a-half years, betting on familiar names and proven formulae while pulling back on support for debut filmmakers , amid a wave of box-office flops even by seasoned directors. The number of debut filmmakers breaking into Hindi cinema fell to 32 in 2024 from 39 in 2022, according to the data shared by veteran trade analysts. So far in 2025, only 15 first-time Hindi filmmakers have had theatrical releases. This decline has come despite an increase in the total number of Hindi film releases to 221 in 2024 from 194 in 2022. The share of debut directors dropped to 14.5% from 20.1% during this period. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Mi Piace Così | Quanto costa perdere peso? Mi Piace Così Undo "Today, producers want to minimise the margin of error," said Ameya Naik, producer and founder of the event management company Fantasy Films. "Gone are the days when a filmmaker could afford to make his or her 'best' film after a few films. Today, a filmmaker's debut film must be his or her 'best' film, as audiences have become more unforgiving than ever," he said. Post-pandemic, producers across geographies have been facing the fundamental challenge of increasing unpredictability in box-office outcomes, with the success ratio of films falling to about 3.2% in 2024. Gross box office collection declined to ₹11,833 crore in 2024 from ₹12,226 crore in 2023, according to Ormax Media, a media and entertainment research firm. Live Events Amid this unpredictability and rising talent costs, Hindi film producers have become averse to backing new stories and directors, industry insiders said. Producers are more interested in exploiting intellectual properties (IPs) of already successful films even as conglomerates, private equity players and asset management companies have acquired high or controlling stakes in entertainment companies across the world. "They are driven more by numbers than creativity. So, they invest in successful IPs by making sequels or remaking them, as they believe familiarity with IPs brings audiences to theatres," said a producer requesting anonymity. This strategy seems to be working. The top three Hindi grossers of 2024 were all franchises and sequels: Stree 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, and Singham Again. In this context, a Bain & Company Global M&A 2025 report noted that owning quality IPs has been a key factor behind recent mergers and acquisitions in the global media and entertainment industry. In this scenario, producers say it is easier for debut filmmakers in Hindi to find opportunities on streaming platforms than making theatrical debut. "I think for debut filmmakers, the challenges involved in making a theatrical film are higher than those involved in making films for streaming platforms," said Naveen Chandra, founder and CEO of 91 Film Studios, a studio for regional films. This is in stark contrast to what is transpiring in regional cinema where several debut directors are making noteworthy content-driven films.
News18
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Anees Bazmee, Amruta Subhash EXCLUSIVE: Jarann, No Entry 2, Diljit Dosanjh, Deepika-Vanga Row
Anees Bazmee's debut Marathi production venture Jarann starring Amruta Subhash released in cinemas today. In an exclusive chat with CNN-News18 Showsha's Titas Chowdhury, the duo talks about coming together to tell a tale of black magic. Anees spills the beans on why he toned down the horror quotient in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and finally reacts to Diljit Dosanjh's rumoured exit from No Entry 2. Amruta, on the other hand, speaks about how Naseeruddin Shah reacted after watching her play Ranveer Singh's mother in Gully Boy and how Zoya Akhtar told her that she wouldn't mind if she turns the offer down. The duo further shares their stance on Deepika Padukone reportedly demanding an 8-hour shift that led to her exit from Spirit. Watch the full interview here. bollywood news | entertainment news live | latest bollywood news | bollywood | news18 | n18oc_moviesLiked the video? Please press the thumbs up icon and leave a comment. Subscribe to Showsha YouTube channel and never miss a video: Showsha on Instagram: Showsha on Facebook: Showsha on X: Showsha on Snapchat: entertainment and lifestyle news and updates on:
Pink Villa
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Diljit Dosanjh's exit from No Entry 2 CONFIRMED, Anees Bazmee reveals shocking details
No Entry was a film that left us in tears because of the hysterical laughter that came with it. So, when the makers confirmed No Entry 2, fans were super thrilled for it. What led to the excitement to reach a notch higher was the reports of the casting. It was said that Varun Dhawan, Arjun Kapoor and Diljit Dosanjh will headline the film. But all hearts were shattered after reports of Chamkila's star exit made rounds. Now, director Anees Bazmee has spilt some beans about his meeting with the singer-turned-actor. Talking to News 18, Anees Bazmee confirmed Diljit Dosanjh 's exit from No Entry 2. He also confessed to not being upset with him walking out. The Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and 3 directors further added that this is not the first time that he has worked with an actor who wasn't the initial choice of the film. But the fact that the film is getting made is giving him pure joy. Anees exclaimed that he works with a lot of earnestness and leaves the rest to God. On having had to work sometimes with his second and third choices, the director stated, 'Once these films got released, audiences felt that those actors fit the characters perfectly and nobody else could've pulled off those parts the way they did.' Bazmee recalls his meeting with Diljit Dosanjh for the film, and it's proof that both of them really wanted it to work out. The director, revealing about his second meeting with the Punjabi singer, which lasted 10 seconds, said that Dosanjh expressed his concerns over date issues. 'We were discussing his dates because there was a bit of back and forth. He told me that he's trying to work out his dates. Boney ji was also there,' told Anees Bazmee. He also seemed unaffected by every development of the film becoming big news. He exclaimed that whatever has to happen will happen, and that will be good. But has Diljit stepping out of the film soured his equation with Anees? Well, nothing of this sort seems to have happened with Bazmee, who still holds him in high regard and considers him a very honest and talented actor. Talking about their first meeting, Anees revealed that they just sat down for 20 minutes, and the singer did not even listen to the full script. He understood the story and instantly agreed to do the film. Now all eyes are on Anees as fans are eagerly waiting to hear an official announcement of the casting and who will replace Dosanjh.
Time of India
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Anees Bazmee presents Marathi horror drama ‘Jarann' starring Amruta Subhash; teaser out now
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) After helming some of Bollywood's biggest entertainers like 'Welcome', 'Singh Is Kinng', and 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2', director Anees Bazmee takes a new turn as he presents his first-ever Marathi film 'Jarann'. Expect a chilling horror ride with 'Jarann' The teaser for Jarann offers a haunting glimpse into the eerie world of the film. With unsettling visuals and a chilling mood, it teases a story revolving around a married woman gripped by mysterious and possibly supernatural forces. Anita Date appears in a striking ritualistic avatar—draped in a red saree, hair let loose, and intense expressions—adding to the intrigue. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like '제발… 엄마 먼저 가지 마세요' 월드비전 더 알아보기 Undo The teaser was shared by the makers on Instagram with a caption that reads, 'गोष्टी सांगितल्या जातात… 'जारण' अनुभवावं लागतं! टीझर आता तुमच्या समोर आहे. #TeaserOutNow #Jarann #6June2025 'जारण' ६ जूनपासून तुमच्या जवळच्या चित्रपटगृहात!.' The post was soon flooded with comments. One comment read, 'Looking fabulous.' Another ones wrote, 'Superb majja yenar.' Check out the teaser here. 'I was immediately drawn to its strength and the director's vision' - Anees Bazmee Speaking about the project in a statement, Anees Bazmee shared, 'I've always admired the depth and quality of Marathi cinema. When I saw this film's narrative, I was immediately drawn to its strength and the director's vision. It's a privilege to support such meaningful storytelling.' Director Rushikesh Gupte describes the film as 'a psychological and emotional journey' that touches on themes of superstition and blind belief. Set to release on THIS date Featuring acclaimed actress Amruta Subhash in the lead, the psychological horror drama is set to release in theatres on June 6, 2025. Directed by Rushikesh Gupte, Jarann also stars Anita Date, Kishor Kadam, Jyoti Malashe, Vikram Gaikwad, Rajan Bhise, Avani Joshi, and Seema Deshmukh in key roles. Overall the expectation levels for this horror drama movie are quite high.
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
From Nushrratt Bharuccha to Ileana D'Cruz: Why Bollywood Heroines Get Replaced in the Sequels
In Bollywood, sequels have become a mainstay, offering audiences a chance to revisit beloved narratives and characters. However, a recurring trend has emerged: the replacement of actresses in these sequels. While male leads often reprise their roles, female counterparts are frequently recast. Bollywood's penchant for retaining its male heroes in sequels—while readily recasting their female counterparts—stems from a complex interplay of narrative design, franchise positioning, star dynamics and practical constraints. Sequels pitched as thematic 'franchises' rather than direct continuations often bring in fresh heroines to signal a new chapter, as seen when Nushrratt Bharuccha was replaced by Ananya Panday in Dream Girl 2 to suit an 'organic' storyline shift. Lead actresses also bow out due to legacy concerns: Vidya Balan declined Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 for fear of tarnishing her original performance, prompting Tabu's entry. Scheduling conflicts, injuries and strategic marketing likewise drive recasting—Kajal Aggarwal stepped away from Singham Returns amidst South commitments and was replaced by Kareena Kapoor Khan. While some directors simply envision new dynamics, as in Ishqiya to Dedh Ishqiya, where Madhuri Dixit succeeded Vidya Balan because "Vidya's character had no further scope." Collectively, these shifts reveal Bollywood's male-centric framing, creative reinvention strategies, and the high stakes of maintaining box-office and brand appeal. Adding to the conversation, actress Shreya Gupto offered a candid perspective on the commercial nature of casting decisions. She said, "I think female leads are more often replaced in sequels based on who is currently trending in the market. There's a lot of business thought put into it. Having said that, I can never imagine Shraddha Kapoor being replaced in three films—I don't think that is going to happen because she probably fills the theatre. So I guess it has a lot to do with business and who is currently trending in the market. However, it is really sad that more often we have seen women getting replaced." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 15 Most Beautiful Female Athletes in the World Learn More Undo Notable Instances of Actress Replacements in Bollywood Sequels : Dream Girl - Dream Girl 2 Replaced : Nushrratt Bharuccha Replacement : Ananya Panday Reason : Director Raaj Shaandilyaa and actor Ayushmann Khurrana described the sequel as an 'organic' progression with a distinct storyline, necessitating a new female lead. Ananya was chosen for her vibrant personality and ability to master the Mathura accent. Nushrratt expressed her disappointment, stating, "Of course it feels unfair," but acknowledged the makers' decision. Raid - Raid 2 Replaced : Ileana D'Cruz Replacement : Vaani Kapoor Reason : At the trailer launch, Ajay Devgn shrugged off concerns saying, 'It's the character you follow, and then new people keep coming in'. Vaani echoed that stance, clarifying 'No jealousy with the previous one…You just try to play your part in the most authentic manner." Satyameva Jayate - Satyameva Jayate 2 Replaced : Aisha Sharma Replacement : Divya Khosla Kumar Reason : The sequel featured a new storyline with John Abraham in a triple role, and Divya Khosla Kumar was cast as the female lead. Specific reasons for Aisha Sharma's replacement were not publicly disclosed. Baaghi Series Baaghi (2016): Shraddha Kapoor Baaghi 2 (2018): Disha Patani Baaghi 3 (2020): Shraddha Kapoor Reason : The Baaghi series follows different storylines in each installment. Disha Patani was initially considered for the first film but was replaced by Shraddha Kapoor. She was later cast in Baaghi 2. The casting changes align with the anthology nature of the series. Son of Sardaar (2012) - Son of Sardaar 2 (Upcoming) Replaced : Sonakshi Sinha Replacement : Reportedly Mrunal Thakur Reason : Details regarding the casting change have not been officially confirmed. Yamla Pagla Deewana Series Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011): Kulraj Randhawa Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 (2013): Neha Sharma Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se (2018): Kriti Kharbanda Reason : Each installment featured a different storyline, leading to new female leads in each film. Golmaal Series Golmaal (2006): Rimi Sen Golmaal Returns (2008): Kareena Kapoor Golmaal 3 (2010): Kareena Kapoor Golmaal Again (2017): Parineeti Chopra Reason : The series introduced new female characters in each installment, aligning with the evolving storylines. Singh Is King (2008) → Singh Is Bliing (2015) Replaced : Katrina Kaif Replacement : Amy Jackson Reason : Singh Is Bliing was not a direct sequel but a standalone film with a different storyline, leading to a new female lead. Jannat (2008) → Jannat 2 (2012) Replaced : Sonal Chauhan Replacement : Esha Gupta Reason : Jannat 2 featured a new narrative, and Esha Gupta was cast as the female lead. Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. (2003) → Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006) Replaced : Gracy Singh Replacement : Vidya Balan Reason : The sequel presented a different storyline with new characters, leading to a change in the female lead. Singham Series Singham (2011): Kajal Aggarwal Singham Returns (2014): Kareena Kapoor Singham Again (2024): Kareena Kapoor and Deepika Padukone Reason : Kajal Aggarwal was replaced due to her commitments in South Indian cinema. Kareena Kapoor returned in the subsequent sequels, with Deepika Padukone joining in the latest installment. Commando Series Commando (2013): Pooja Chopra Commando 2 (2017): Adah Sharma Commando 3 (2019): Adah Sharma Reason : The sequels introduced new storylines, with Adah Sharma taking over as the female lead from the second installment onward. Replaced : Tabu Replacement : Rimi Sen Reason : The sequel introduced new characters and storylines, resulting in a change in the female lead. This lack of clear explanation can be frustrating for fans—but is it necessary? Gupto shared her thoughts on whether audiences are owed transparency. "As far as the audience is concerned, I don't think the makers are liable to explain their decisions. Even when they do speak, I think they've been offering convincing answers so far. But audiences are extremely sharp these days; we have common sense to figure out why somebody would be replaced, and we don't believe news blindly," she added. Franchise Sequels Invite Fresh Faces When a follow-up is positioned as a thematic or spiritual franchise rather than a narrative continuation, filmmakers feel freer to recast female leads. In Dream Girl 2, director Raaj Shaandilyaa and star Ayushmann Khurrana described the film as a new story within the brand, resulting in Ananya Panday replacing Nushrratt Bharuccha to inject fresh energy and a Mathura dialect twist. Nushrratt later admitted the change 'hurts' and called the 'franchise' justification insufficient, noting even male co-stars would find it unfair. Anthology-Style Series The Baaghi and Housefull franchises exemplify anthology approaches. Baaghi 2 introduced Disha Patani in place of Shraddha Kapoor to match its distinct plotline, only for Shraddha to return in Baaghi 3 alongside Tiger Shroff's evolving character arc . Similarly, each Housefull film features a new ensemble heroine—Deepika Padukone to Kriti Sanon to Pooja Hegde—underscoring narrative resets over continuity . Heroes as Brand Anchors Blockbuster stars like Ajay Devgn in Raid and Saif Ali Khan in Race serve as the franchise anchors, while heroines rotate around them. In Raid 2, Devgn returns as Amay Patnaik but Ileana D'Cruz makes way for Vaani Kapoor without public explanation—reinforcing that the male role defines the sequel's brand . Likewise, Race 2 retained Khan but replaced both Bipasha Basu and Katrina Kaif, citing new story demands and scheduling conflicts, before embracing fresh pairings with Deepika Padukone and Jacqueline Fernandez Perceived Interchangeability Actresses themselves have called out this pattern. Nushrratt Bharuccha highlighted how 'only the girl changes' in sequels, while the male cast remains intact—a dynamic she described as 'not cool'. This interchangeability often fuels debates on gender bias in star billing and franchise valuation. Star Power for Box-Office Pull Producers often refresh franchises by tapping current marketable faces. Casting Ananya Panday (a star kid) in Dream Girl 2 and Mrunal Thakur in Son of Sardaar 2 (replacing Sonakshi Sinha) reflects an industry trend favoring bankable newcomers or established film-family names to maximize hype . For rising stars like Gupto, the franchise game is a dream—but not without its dilemmas. "I would love to be part of a successful franchise—look at the Stree, Drishyam, Dhoom or Golmaal series. These films create worlds that endure, and as an actor, I would absolutely love to be part of such a franchise. However, I would be very upset if I were replaced in the next sequel. To begin with, though, I would be extremely grateful for the opportunity," Shreya concluded. As Bollywood continues to expand its franchise playbook—across theatrical releases and OTT series—the recurring practice of replacing actresses in sequels offers a revealing window into creative priorities, commercial calculations and the often unequal valuation of star power. Understanding these forces not only enriches our appreciation of the films themselves but also prompts reflection on how gender, narrative form and business strategy intersect in India's film capital. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
