Kangana replaces Vidya in Shootout At Wadala

MUMBAI: 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.

Tanuj 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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Angela, Amy set for item outing?

MUMBAI: Even though they are yet to hit Bollywood’s silver screen, actors Angela Jonsson and Amy Jackson have already created some buzz in tinsel-town. And the latest news is that they both have been short listed for a nautanki-style item number in the Irrfan Khan-starrer, Paan Singh Tomar.

“Angela and Amy are the frontrunners. They will be approached separately by UTV (producers) and depending on the negotiations, one of them will be finalised. Who fits the bill in terms of the song as well as the pricing, remains to be seen,” says an insider from the production house.

For the uninitiated, Angela — also known as Ranbir Kapoor’s ex-flame — has inked an exclusive deal with Salman Khan’s home production, besides another contract with producer Sajid Nadiadwala.

The Kingfisher Calendar model is expected to star opposite Salman in Sher Khan and Kick. British model Amy, on her part, is believed to be in a relationship with her Ekk Deewana Tha co-star Prateik.Apparently, the makers of the Tigmanshu Dhulia directorial are looking for a specific dance number because the film is relatively serious in nature. “Regardless of who does the song (Angela or Amy) Irrfan being part of it is unlikely. But things will be finalised in about a week’s time,” adds the insider.

When contacted, Shikha Kapur, senior vice president, UTV Motion Pictures doesn’t deny the news. She says, “Right now, we are planning what to do. A music video is an option, but it’s too early to reveal anything on the subject.”

Produced by UTV Motion Pictures, Paan Singh Tomar is based on the true story of a runner, who turns into a rebel. To release on March 2, besides Irrfan as Paan Singh Tomar, the film also stars Mahie Gill and Vipin Sharma of Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster (2011) fame.

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Kareena Kapoor talks about marriage and films

MUMBAI: Kareena Kapoor has three films with three Khans coming up over the next five months -Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu with Imran on February 10, Agent Vinod opposite Saif on March 23 and Talaash co-starring Aamir on June 10.

Quiz her on her favourite Khan and she says, “I am a huge Aamir fan and it’s an honour doing back-to-back movies with him. Imran was the biggest reason for doing Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, he’s a cool guy who, even after seven films, still looks so natural and fresh on screen. I share amazing chemistry with both these Khans, but I know that I’ll make the best ‘jodi’ (pair) with Saif in 2012.”

Agent Vinod has taken its time coming but, she points out, it’s a big-budget action movie. “We’ve finally locked on a release date. The reactions to the first poster and promo have been overwhelming,” she smiles, adding, “Saif and I look great together, I know Agent Vinod will be the film for us." Post its release, Saif and she are supposed to announce their marriage date.

A jeweller in Rajkot claims he’s got an order for a Rs. 40 lakh royal necklace for her. Kareena retorts, “From India to Pakistan to Los Angeles, everyone’s planning our wedding. It’s discussed more than the Lok Pal Bill. Imran’s the only co-star who hasn’t asked me when I’m getting married. I respect him for that, and wish others wouldn’t too. When two people are in love, it’s obvious that they’ll take the relationship forward when they think the time is right.”

Right now, she says, both their energies are focused on ensuring the best launch for their movie: “After that we’ll decide what to tell the world. I understand everyone is curious but it’s our choice. They should respect that.”

In her Valentine’s Day release, Kareena and Imran get married in a drunken stupour. “Most films end with a marriage, Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu starts with one, even though my character, Riana Braganza, is not interested in getting married. She’s lost her job, is alone in Vegas, but she’s no ‘bechari’ (damsel-in-distress). Rather she’s a sunshine girl like me,” says Kareena. “Only I’m far more conservative when it comes to marriage and I will do it right.”

Soha hasn’t told us

According to a recent press report, Saif’s younger sister, Soha Ali Khan, and her steady date Kunal Khemu are getting engaged this year. The news was apparently confirmed by a ‘source’ close to the couple. Prod Kareena on the subject and she says, “I would really like to meet these ‘sources’. I have no idea about an engagement. Soha hasn’t mentioned anything to Saif or me.”

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