Showing posts with label Vedaa. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vedaa. Show all posts
I find newcomers more suitable, till they get corrupt-John Abraham
9:12 AM
Actor-producer John Abraham talks about why he prefers working with fresh faces till they become ‘corrupt’
Akash Bhatnagar (HINDUSTAN TIMES; April 28, 2025)
In recent times, filmmakers such as Hansal Mehta and Anurag Kashyap have been vocal about how Bollywood needs to invest in new faces and be willing to take more risks. Well, it’s something actor John Abraham has been doing since he first donned the producer’s hat for Vicky Donor. While he launched actors Ayushmann Khurrana and Yami Gautam Dhar in Bollywood with the 2012 film, his more recent releases — Vedaa (2024) and The Diplomat — have seen him work with relatively new actors like Sharvari and Sadia Khateeb, respectively.
Ask what pulls him towards fresh faces and John says, “A lot of newcomers come with no baggage and it’s easier to work with them. Also, for me, the director’s word is final. I don’t start a film with the preconceived notion of taking an industry kid or an outsider. Anyone who fits the bill, works for me.”
Having said that, John admits that as a producer, it’s a problem when his talent comes with huge entourages: “If you come with 14 people, it is troublesome for me. I have a football team, and I know how much money that has cost me, so I don’t want another football team in my life.”
The 52-year-old adds, “I don’t have a big team. So, when I am producing a film, I expect my colleagues to operate like me. I find newcomers more suitable, till they get corrupt. After a film or two, they find success and move on to another level. So, I start looking for newcomers again.”
I’m glad that after 21 years, people are still watching Kal Ho Naa Ho, dancing to Maahi Ve-Nikkhil Advani
8:13 AM
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; December 10, 2024)
Call it serendipity or coincidence, Nikkhil Advani ended up with two releases on the same day last month – the re-release of Kal Ho Naa Ho and the release of the period drama Freedom At Midnight. He says he can’t really take credit for either of the projects or the release dates. “I was just offered the projects, and I didn’t say no,” he said during a conversation.
‘I ENJOY BEING ON SET’
Nikkhil says he enjoys filmmaking. “I enjoy being on set. I love being in a writers’ room. As a showrunner and producer, I constantly have to be in rooms where budgets are being discussed and, more importantly, where budget cuts are being slashed. I’ve never really enjoyed being in an editing room, though. I hate it because every time I watch my footage, I find myself thinking, ‘I could have shot this better. I wanted it to be better. Maybe we can change this,” he says.
‘IT WAS A CONSCIOUS DECISION TO USE LIGHTS LIKE THE CROWN’
Watching Freedom At Midnight may remind the audience of the historical drama The Crown. Nikkhil says, “Was it a conscious decision to be like The Crown? Yes, very much. What The Crown does is use very harsh backlight from the windows, and they shoot a lot on sets. We were also shooting extensively on sets, so it became an automatic reference point for us. Agar aap blue ya green screen use karte ho, then half your budget goes into VFX, and you can’t do anything else.”
He further explains, “These are things I’ve learned over the years. For instance, if I want the audience to feel a little more stressed out, I use darker colours and wood paneling. Colours were thought out very carefully because I wanted the audience to be emotionally connected to every scene of Freedom At Midnight.”
‘TRIED TO BE AS AUTHENTIC AS POSSIBLE’
Nikkhil says that as far as authenticity is concerned, the team tried their best. He explains, “But I don’t think it can ever be enough, right? The people being spoken about and shown in this story were giants. It’s not just about getting their physicality, speech, or walk right. What they thought, what they said, their vision – it was immense. What I tried to do was put the audience into a room with them and show, yeh log kaise thay.”
‘People still dance to Maahi Ve and send me clips’
“Neither did I have a choice about the release of Freedom At Midnight, nor did I have a say in the re-release of Kal Ho Naa Ho,” shares the filmmaker, adding, “I’m just glad that after 21 years, people are still watching Kal Ho Naa Ho, dancing to Maahi Ve, and sending me video clips.”
He says, “I didn’t consciously make these choices. Someone offered me Freedom At Midnight, and someone offered me Kal Ho Naa Ho. Maine keval bola, ‘Mujhe kaam chahiye, mujhe kaam karna hai.’ My sister (Monisha Advani) and my production partner, Madhu (Bhojwani), often ask me, ‘When will you turn around and start saying no?’ And I reply, ‘I won’t. I’ll never say no. If I’m offered a project, why would I say no?’ Logon ke paas kaam nahi hai. People often say, ‘You’re doing so much work,’ and the reason is simple I say yes to everything. When I was doing the post-production for Vedaa, I was simultaneously shooting Freedom At Midnight. I don’t say no; I only say yes. Karan (Johar) told me to do Kal Ho Naa Ho, and I said, Okay.”
Vedaa is still sustaining and not really washed out as some people thought it would-Abhishek Banerjee
8:55 AM
Abhishek Banerjee comments on the poles apart box office performances of Vedaa and Stree 2 and the future of the horror universe
Akash Bhatnagar (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 3, 2024)
Abhishek Banerjee had double the reason to celebrate this Independence Day as two of his films, Stree 2 and Vedaa, released on the same day. While Stree 2 went on to become a blockbuster, Vedaa faltered at the box office. Talking about the clash, the actor says, “It’s a bittersweet experience for me right now.”
Adding further, Banerjee says, “Vedaa is a great film and whoever has watched it, they loved it. The opening day was good, and we got great reviews. But now what can we do? I am also learning, and the producers would have made their calculations, but it didn’t work out that way. Yet Vedaa is still sustaining and not really washed out as some people thought it would. Stree 2 has brought people back to theatres and that’s important. Now, they would want more, and they might come to see Vedaa, which is already happening at quite a few places.”
Coming to Stree 2, the 39-year-old admits that the film’s level of success did come as a surprise. “While we expected the film to do well, nobody expected it to cross Rs. 50 crore on day one. It’s madness. But what’s more gladdening is when people are saying that it’s like a festival in theatres. People are lining up in queues even in urban centres. We always heard of such things happening in (actor) Amitabh Bachchan’s films, and last year with (actor) Shah Rukh Khan’s films and now it’s happening for us. It feels special,” he exclaims.
So, will we see him in a larger capacity and not just cameos in the other upcoming films of the horror universe? “I think Jana is one of the connectors for the whole universe. He is designed to be haunted and troubled by all these supernatural monsters,” he says, giving an update about the future: “Stree 3 ki thodi bahut writing ho chuki hai and they will probably start writing Bhediya 2 soon.”
Jana is the 4 am friend of every superhero in this universe-Abhishek Banerjee
8:36 AM
Shining in contrasting roles in Stree 2 and Vedaa, Abhishek on being horror comedy universe’s common link and tasting success after years of hard work
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; August 24, 2024)
In the past week or so, Abhishek Banerjee has become 10 years younger. “That’s what validation does to you,” he smiles. The actor had a stellar week; he was seen as the innocent Janaa in Stree 2 and the cruel local leader Jitender in Vedaa, both films showcasing his range as a performer. He is happiest that they have earned him praise from his father.
“My dad saw both films back-to-back, and was happy that people were hooting at my entry. He never thought I could be an actor, and praise coming from him feels like an achievement. I’m glad he could see this day because we often hear that by the time one delivers a hit, their parents aren’t around to see it,” he reflects.
Banerjee’s fears were not unfounded. The movie industry can be a harsh place, and his journey hasn’t been easy. “Today, the success doesn’t feel delayed at all. I’ve worked hard to be here and enjoyed everything along the way. Also, because I am a casting director, I can assure people that no one ever rejects a good actor. If you’re good, you’ll get [a break]!”
His big break came in Paatal Lok (2020). Before that, he had caught the audience’s attention as Janaa, the lovable friend of Rajkummar Rao’s Vicky, in Stree (2018). Banerjee admits he is emotionally attached to the character.
“He is so innocent and pure that even evil energies are nice to him. Stree let him go [in the first part]. Bhediya is a beast, but is Janaa’s friend. Every time I play him, I feel my soul is cleansed. Janaa is the child version of me. My daak naam [nickname] is Bhola. I trust easily, love a lot, and have faith. Mumbai hasn’t eroded my simplicity. Janaa aligns with who I am. He is the 4 am friend of every superhero in this universe.”
That he is a part of this horror comedy universe with director Amar Kaushik makes it all the more enjoyable. The actor believes there is a lot of Janaa’s simplicity in Kaushik too. “He can give me a look, and I know exactly what he wants. I can read his face. We’re a bit of lovers,” he laughs, remembering how they first bonded.
“I’m the first actor Amar ever directed. He was the second unit director in No One Killed Jessica [2011], and I played a pickpocket. It’s crazy how far we’ve come.”
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 844
4:56 PM
STREE 2 SCORES BEYOND EXPECTATIONS; KHEL KHEL MEIN, VEDAA MAKERS REGRET CLASHING WITH HORROR COMEDY
The three-way clash occurred on Independence Day last week. Stree 2 was expected to take a flying start. An opening of Rs. 35-40 crores would have been extraordinary for this film as it doesn’t have a huge star cast. But Stree 2 opened at Rs. 53.25 crores, a figure no one imagined in their wildest dreams. Moreover, this happened with fewer screens as some showcasing was given to Khel Khel Mein and Vedaa. If these two films were not there, Stree 2 might have opened at Rs. 60 crores. One must also remember that it also had paid previews when it collected Rs. 8.75 crores, the highest ever a film has collected in previews.
Stree 2 enjoyed a terrific word of mouth and also has repeat value. As a result, the collections remained rock steady; it earned Rs. 31.50 crores on Friday and Rs. 44.50 crores on Saturday. On Sunday, it collected more than Thursday – Rs. 57 crores. Since Monday was a holiday on account of Raksha Bandhan, it collected Rs. 37 crores. On Tuesday, a working day, the collections dropped to Rs. 25 crores but it’s still praiseworthy.
The first week's collections are expected to be around Rs. 290 crores. With no competition this week and next, it’ll continue to score big time. Hence, a lifetime of more than Rs. 500 crores is expected.
Vedaa, meanwhile, opened at Rs. 6.25 crores. The word of mouth was not encouraging. As a result, it dropped to Rs. 2 crores on Friday, which sealed its fate. The makers had to implement a Buy One Get One ticket-free scheme to lure the viewers. It didn’t help much as the film collected Rs. 2.50 crores and Rs. 2.75 crores on Saturday and Sunday respectively. After the extended weekend ended, the collections fell below Rs. 1 crore from Tuesday. Its first week collections will be around Rs. 17.25 crores and now it’ll be a struggle for the film to cross the Rs. 25 crores mark. The makers have now asked cinemas to sell Vedaa's tickets for Rs. 99 and Rs. 150.
Khel Khel Mein, on the other hand, opened lower than Vedaa at Rs. 5.75 crores. But it went ahead as its word of mouth was positive. Yet, the collections remained on the lower side. It collected Rs. 2.25 crores on Friday, Rs. 3.25 crores on Saturday and Rs. 4 crores on Sunday. On Monday, the collections were Rs. 2 crores. The Tuesday and Wednesday earnings were in the Rs. 1 crore range. The collections of the first week will be around Rs. 20.40 crores.
What goes in favour of the film is that it's holding steady in urban areas. In fact, it might continue to collect for a few weeks. Those who have seen Stree 2 already might watch this film later on. Yet, with the opening so low, the film at the most can have a lifetime of Rs. 30 crores or maybe it can reach the Rs. 35 crores mark.
The three-way clash occurred on Independence Day last week. Stree 2 was expected to take a flying start. An opening of Rs. 35-40 crores would have been extraordinary for this film as it doesn’t have a huge star cast. But Stree 2 opened at Rs. 53.25 crores, a figure no one imagined in their wildest dreams. Moreover, this happened with fewer screens as some showcasing was given to Khel Khel Mein and Vedaa. If these two films were not there, Stree 2 might have opened at Rs. 60 crores. One must also remember that it also had paid previews when it collected Rs. 8.75 crores, the highest ever a film has collected in previews.
Stree 2 enjoyed a terrific word of mouth and also has repeat value. As a result, the collections remained rock steady; it earned Rs. 31.50 crores on Friday and Rs. 44.50 crores on Saturday. On Sunday, it collected more than Thursday – Rs. 57 crores. Since Monday was a holiday on account of Raksha Bandhan, it collected Rs. 37 crores. On Tuesday, a working day, the collections dropped to Rs. 25 crores but it’s still praiseworthy.
The first week's collections are expected to be around Rs. 290 crores. With no competition this week and next, it’ll continue to score big time. Hence, a lifetime of more than Rs. 500 crores is expected.
Vedaa, meanwhile, opened at Rs. 6.25 crores. The word of mouth was not encouraging. As a result, it dropped to Rs. 2 crores on Friday, which sealed its fate. The makers had to implement a Buy One Get One ticket-free scheme to lure the viewers. It didn’t help much as the film collected Rs. 2.50 crores and Rs. 2.75 crores on Saturday and Sunday respectively. After the extended weekend ended, the collections fell below Rs. 1 crore from Tuesday. Its first week collections will be around Rs. 17.25 crores and now it’ll be a struggle for the film to cross the Rs. 25 crores mark. The makers have now asked cinemas to sell Vedaa's tickets for Rs. 99 and Rs. 150.
Khel Khel Mein, on the other hand, opened lower than Vedaa at Rs. 5.75 crores. But it went ahead as its word of mouth was positive. Yet, the collections remained on the lower side. It collected Rs. 2.25 crores on Friday, Rs. 3.25 crores on Saturday and Rs. 4 crores on Sunday. On Monday, the collections were Rs. 2 crores. The Tuesday and Wednesday earnings were in the Rs. 1 crore range. The collections of the first week will be around Rs. 20.40 crores.
What goes in favour of the film is that it's holding steady in urban areas. In fact, it might continue to collect for a few weeks. Those who have seen Stree 2 already might watch this film later on. Yet, with the opening so low, the film at the most can have a lifetime of Rs. 30 crores or maybe it can reach the Rs. 35 crores mark.
(Crisp) Movie Review: VEDAA by FENIL SETA
3:37 PM
Vedaa is a rare Hindi film that talks about caste discrimination but in a mainstream commercial cinema setting. A few scenes would shock viewers and it adds to the impact especially when the protagonist hits back. The action scenes are massy and would be greeted with claps and whistles. However, the plot is predictable. Also, there are too many cinematic liberties in the second half with the climax being the weakest part of the enterprise. In fact, it is shocking how such an ending got approved in the first place. John Abraham speaks with his eyes and of course through his fights. He gives a fine performance overall although in some scenes, he could have been better. Sharvari rocks the show and proves that she's a talent to watch out for. Abhishek Banerjee is excellent as the villain. Kshitij Chauhan (Suyog; Jitendar's brother) is apt for the part. He's played his role so well that you would want the protagonists to bash him. Ashish Vidyarthi (Jitendar's kaka) is decent and raises laughs. Paritosh Sand (Uttamlal; Abhimanyu's father-in-law) and Kumud Mishra (Vedaa's mausa) perform ably in small roles. Tamannaah Bhatia is dependable and Mouni Roy is sizzling in a cameo. Others do fine while the music is poor. All in all, Vedaa is worth watching for performances and mass-appealing scenes but due to the climax, it turns out to be an average film.
My rating - ** ½ out of 5!
My rating - ** ½ out of 5!
Multiplexes expect a blockbuster weekend; record footfalls likely
8:42 AM
Record footfalls likely during 5-day weekend, which coincides with top Hindi & regional movie screenings: Execs
Javed Farooqui (THE ECONOMIC TIMES; August 14, 2024)
Film exhibitors expect record footfalls through the five-day weekend that coincides with the screening of potentially blockbuster Hindi and regional films, such as Stree 2, Khel Khel Mein, Vedaa, Double iSmart, and Thangalaan.
Executives at PVR Inox and Cinepolis say that the footfalls during the five-day long weekend that begins with Independence Day on Thursday have the potential to break the previous year's record of 35 million footfalls during the I-Day week.
"For us, it's better when 4 to 5 films work well in tandem rather than one film going through the roof. Stree 2 and Khel Khel Mein are seeing strong traction, but Vedaa, Double iSmart, and Thangalaan are also looking very promising," said PVR Inox co-CEO Gautam Dutta.
PVR Inox has done advance bookings of 4.5 lakh tickets between the five movies and expects ticket sales to accelerate as the week progresses.
"This is just the tip of the iceberg, as we have just opened Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday bookings. This number should be looked at from the perspective that the trend of advance bookings is not very high," Dutta added.
PVR Inox is expecting footfalls of four million between Thursday and Sunday. "We are expecting a million footfalls on Thursday. We are looking to do a footfall of about 3 million on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday," Dutta said.
Cinepolis India MD Devang Sampat said that the movie line-up looks promising as the content is diverse, catering to audiences with different tastes. Cinepolis is eyeing 1.2 million footfalls during the week.
"We have a five-day holiday, which has never happened in the past. What Gadar 2 and OMG 2 did last year, we are expecting something similar to happen this year," he said, adding that it has already sold 1 lakh tickets for Stree 2, Khel Khel Mein, and Vedaa during the weekend.
Jio Studios and Maddock Films’ Stree 2 has sold over 1 lakh tickets for the opening day alone within 48 hours of tickets going up for sale. Going by the advance booking data, the movie has already garnered over Rs 30 crore for the opening day on August 15
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 843
11:28 AM
STREE 2 SET FOR A HUMONGOUS OPENING; WILL THE ‘OVERFLOW’ FACTOR HELP VEDAA, KHEL KHEL MEIN?
The mega clash between Stree 2, Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein will take place tomorrow, August 15. However, it seems like Stree 2 is miles ahead while the other two would suffer as the former has turned out to be a much bigger opposition than anticipated.
Stree’s first part opened at Rs. 6.62 crores and went on to collect Rs. 124.56 crores in its lifetime. Stree 2, meanwhile, would open between Rs. 35-40 crores and can even go higher. It also has paid previews today from 9:30 pm where it can earn Rs. 7 crores plus. This means that it’ll break the 11-year record of Chennai Express. The Shah Rukh Khan starrer was the highest-paid preview grosser, collecting Rs. 6.75 crores.
Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein, meanwhile, are facing the heat. Usually, it happens that during a clash, the weaker film benefits when the overflow audience from the main film throngs to see the latter. It means that if the audience doesn’t get a ticket to the most exciting film, they’ll settle for the second option. OMG 2 benefited this way during the clash with Gadar 2. Even Sam Bahadur got an edge when it was released alongside Animal.
But both OMG 2 and Sam Bahadur had advantages. OMG 2’s first part was much loved. The controversy over its cuts had enhanced curiosity. Sam Bahadur’s trailer got a good response and since Animal was ‘A’ rated, the family audience preferred the Vicky Kaushal-starrer. Sadly, Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein don’t have such advantages. The trailers of both films have got just a fair response while the songs in both the movies haven’t worked. Stree 2, meanwhile, has a lot of factors going in its favour – from the brand value to songs to outstanding trailer to the lucrative horror comedy genre.
Hence, the demand for Stree 2 is too high and it's difficult to say if viewers would opt for Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein in case the former’s shows are full as the excitement for the latter is very limited. Vedaa is ahead and will collect around Rs. 7 crores while Khel Khel Mein would have an opening of around Rs. 6 crores. Since films tend to overperform on Independence Day, these two films can have a higher number as well.
Despite the poor opening, Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein still stand a chance. This is because the holiday period extends till Monday, August 19. Even Monday, August 26 is a holiday due to Janmashtami. Hence, the two long weekends are enough for these films to sail through, provided the word of mouth is positive. If the reports are bad, then it’ll prove detrimental.
The mega clash between Stree 2, Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein will take place tomorrow, August 15. However, it seems like Stree 2 is miles ahead while the other two would suffer as the former has turned out to be a much bigger opposition than anticipated.
Stree’s first part opened at Rs. 6.62 crores and went on to collect Rs. 124.56 crores in its lifetime. Stree 2, meanwhile, would open between Rs. 35-40 crores and can even go higher. It also has paid previews today from 9:30 pm where it can earn Rs. 7 crores plus. This means that it’ll break the 11-year record of Chennai Express. The Shah Rukh Khan starrer was the highest-paid preview grosser, collecting Rs. 6.75 crores.
Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein, meanwhile, are facing the heat. Usually, it happens that during a clash, the weaker film benefits when the overflow audience from the main film throngs to see the latter. It means that if the audience doesn’t get a ticket to the most exciting film, they’ll settle for the second option. OMG 2 benefited this way during the clash with Gadar 2. Even Sam Bahadur got an edge when it was released alongside Animal.
But both OMG 2 and Sam Bahadur had advantages. OMG 2’s first part was much loved. The controversy over its cuts had enhanced curiosity. Sam Bahadur’s trailer got a good response and since Animal was ‘A’ rated, the family audience preferred the Vicky Kaushal-starrer. Sadly, Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein don’t have such advantages. The trailers of both films have got just a fair response while the songs in both the movies haven’t worked. Stree 2, meanwhile, has a lot of factors going in its favour – from the brand value to songs to outstanding trailer to the lucrative horror comedy genre.
Hence, the demand for Stree 2 is too high and it's difficult to say if viewers would opt for Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein in case the former’s shows are full as the excitement for the latter is very limited. Vedaa is ahead and will collect around Rs. 7 crores while Khel Khel Mein would have an opening of around Rs. 6 crores. Since films tend to overperform on Independence Day, these two films can have a higher number as well.
Despite the poor opening, Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein still stand a chance. This is because the holiday period extends till Monday, August 19. Even Monday, August 26 is a holiday due to Janmashtami. Hence, the two long weekends are enough for these films to sail through, provided the word of mouth is positive. If the reports are bad, then it’ll prove detrimental.
John Abraham is the biggest action star of our country; taught me about action sequences and their safety-Sharvari
8:20 AM
Terming Vedaa as an important film to boost her ‘belief in her craft,’ Sharvari on how she underwent five-month boxing prep and learnt action tricks from co-star John
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; August 13, 2024)
Sharvari’s star is on the rise after the unexpected success of Munjya. The actor followed it up with Maharaj. But her third release of the year, Vedaa, is of prime importance to her. Reason? Nikkhil Advani’s directorial venture is her first stab at playing the titular role. If starring in and as is tough, matching up to John Abraham in an action film is tougher. She says she underwent five-month intensive training in boxing before facing the camera.
“I had never taken up boxing before. To learn it from scratch was a challenge. I had to build my physical fitness and endurance before I even started learning boxing. I specifically had to learn the speed bag for the film,” she recounts.
On screen, Abraham plays her mentor, who helps her toughen up as she fights against caste violence. Off screen, the dynamics weren’t too different.
“John is the biggest action star of our country. In real life, he taught me a lot about action sequences and their safety. It has been enriching to learn some tricks of the trade from John. But we were all in service of our director’s vision. I’ve been a huge fan of Nikkhil’s work and to be directed by him in a titular role is motivating for someone like me who comes with no backing in this industry.”
Leading the August 15 release gives a boost of confidence to the four-project-old actor. Even as she comes off Munjya’s success, she asserts that her focus is on her craft more than the box-office numbers.
“This film is important for my survival, growth, and my belief in my craft. Different languages, different lives and stories attract me as an actor. My character’s relentless fight for equality and justice inspired me to be a part of Vedaa. For me, the most important things are the story and what my character is trying to say.”
That’s where Vedaa, with its messaging about standing up against casteism, spoke to her. Sharvari views it as a story of resilience and challenging the status quo.
She states, “It’s a tale of empowerment, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can triumph. We want to remind viewers that standing up for what is right, with courage and conviction, can lead to lasting change, and that every individual has the power to make a difference.”
Censor Board hasn’t made any cuts that hamper Vedaa's story-Monisha Advani
8:25 AM
Contrary to buzz that CBFC cleared Vedaa without any cuts, 10 minutes of the film snipped, including scenes that mention caste and Sanskrit shlokas; maker Monisha says Board respected the ‘movie’s intent’
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; August 8, 2024)
Vedaa isn’t exactly having a smooth road to the theatres. After John Abraham and Sharvari’s action fare was screened for the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on June 25, it was held up for over a month at the Revising Committee, which finally gave it a go-ahead on July 29 (Make up for lost time, July 31). At the time, director Nikkhil Advani had indicated that it was granted a ‘U/A’ certificate without any cuts. However, it has now emerged that the makers were instructed to snip about 10 minutes of the film—which revolves around caste oppression—to receive the certification.
For starters, the CBFC asked the filmmakers to add a modified disclaimer and voiceover, lasting 1 minute and 16 seconds, stating that the movie is a work of fiction, inspired by true events. While a dialogue containing derogatory references to women had to be altered, a two-minute hanging scene was removed.
A source says, “Some cuts were proactively suggested by Nikkhil, including the reduction of violence inside the court. This is where the film lost over six minutes. The Censor Board asked them to delete a scene that had a character listening to an audio track with Sanskrit shlokas. They also instructed that the text ‘Brahmin’s son...Shudra’s son’ be dropped. The abusive term ‘behenkhor’ was replaced.”
In July, the director had expressed his disappointment when the CBFC had not certified Vedaa for almost a month (Never saw a time when the maker couldn’t talk to CBFC, July 27). But now, the makers are not only happy with the certification, but also deem the suggested cuts reasonable.
Producer Monisha Advani says, “Experts viewed the film and there was careful thought given to the film’s material. The cuts that they’ve asked for are not unreasonable. It was heartening [to see] that their stance was to respect the movie’s intent. The sentiment was, ‘We will not disturb your story in any way.’ They said it’s an important story that must be viewed by everyone. They haven’t made any cuts that hamper the story.”
Was the violence in the August 15 release reduced so that it could be given a ‘U/A’ certification? “They were magnanimous with ‘U/A’ so that they can allow a wider audience for the film. We don’t have a problem with the action piece that has been reduced. We had a four-minute disclaimer in Batla House [2019] too.”
The month-long wait was excruciating for the team, and Monisha hopes that the Board will be cognizant of it. “CBFC must be empowered with more people so that timeline issues can be avoided. Films could be processed faster.”
I have never seen a time when a filmmaker hasn’t been able to talk to the CBFC about the changes-Nikkhil Advani
8:29 AM
As Vedaa awaits CBFC’s clearance for a month, director Nikkhil shocked that Board has sent it to Revising Committee without apprising him of issues
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 27, 2024)
“Arre, aap toh Kal Ho Naa Ho [2003] jaisi film banate thhe!” This is all that filmmaker Nikkhil Advani heard from one of the members the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) after he screened Vedaa for the body on June 25. There has been no formal response from the CBFC regarding the John Abraham and Sharvari-starrer since, except the communication in early July that it was being sent ahead to the Revising Committee.
What exactly is the CBFC’s concern with the movie, which is eyeing an August 15 release? That’s the first question we ask the director when we get on a call with him.
“I would tell you, but I have no idea. The norm is that the Examining Committee watches the film, sends us a list of objections or reservations, and then we discuss further. For instance, in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway [2023], they had an issue with the word ‘harami’ being used. We explained to them that the protagonist is from the outskirts of Kolkata, and is semi-educated. She is enraged and desperate. They understood our perspective. Neena Gupta’s character in the film was modelled on Sushma Swaraj; [through her] we had shown Swaraj’s speech in the Parliament. While we had paraphrased it, the board suggested it be kept verbatim because this speech was documented in public records. We incorporated that change. I have never had this experience where the CBFC has held something for a month, and I have no idea what the issue is,” says Advani, who expressed his disappointment in a lengthy post on Instagram on July 25.
The teaser of Vedaa indicates an undercurrent of caste issue, and a heavy dose of action. For now, Advani is focused on its July 29 screening for the Revising Committee. The filmmaker informs that the screening was initially scheduled for July 25, but was cancelled due to the heavy rains. Despite the hurdles, he doesn’t believe that it’s a tough time for filmmakers today.
“I am doing my best work today. I am making Freedom at Midnight, Rocket Boys; I don’t think it’s the worst time to be a filmmaker.”
Advani adds, “I will say, however, that I have never seen a time when a filmmaker hasn’t been able to talk to the CBFC about the changes. Every time we’ve come across a situation like this, we’ve sat across the table and discussed the recommendations. Earlier, a representative would be sent to my office to discuss the changes. But this time it feels like I have been ghosted.”
August 15 has two more Hindi releases in Rajkummar Rao’s Stree 2 and Akshay Kumar’s Khel Khel Mein. At the moment, it seems unlikely that Vedaa will meet its release date.
“[A delay in release] cannot happen because it will lead to major losses for me and the studio. Right now, we are hoping that the Monday screening happens. Then we can negotiate the changes needed. Our promotional window is reduced. Vedaa is a potboiler set in current times. It releases in two weeks and our first trailer hasn’t come yet!” says the filmmaker.
mid-day texted CBFC chairperson Prasoon Joshi, who didn’t respond till press time. However, a member of the Revising Committee, who was to watch the film on Thursday, on condition of anonymity, assured that Vedaa will be viewed on July 29.
The insider added, “There was a city-wide red alert on Thursday, which is why we had to push the screening. The delay is only because of the backlog of other films; there is no ulterior motive. There are some objectionable bits in the film, they will be addressed by the Revising Committee. The film will meet its release date.”
Trade experts talk about Stree 2, Khel Khel Mein and Vedaa's three-way clash
8:38 AM
As Stree 2, Khel Khel Mein and Vedaa gear up for a three-way clash on I-Day, trade hopes one release will be deferred to avoid eating into each other’s business
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; July 18, 2024)
At the box office, two is a crowd, not company. So, what does that make of three films? On August 15, theatres will witness a three-way clash between Stree 2, Khel Khel Mein and Vedaa. Clashes not only eat into each film’s box-office business, but also impact the industry at large.
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh says that Stree 2, Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor’s sequel to their 2018 horror comedy, is way ahead of the competition. “Stree’s fan base has multiplied over time. So, Stree 2 will undoubtedly be people’s first choice,” he states.
Adarsh notes that a clash impacts the audience too. “They will have no movies to watch for the next three weeks. Unfortunately, all producers are firm on their release dates, and [are hoping for] high footfall as it’s a four-day weekend. Today, most producers want to cash in on the long weekends. While all three films will fight for screens and shows, Stree 2 has a big advantage as PVR-Inox is also part of its distribution. So, essentially, it will be a clash between the other two.”
Director Mudassar Aziz’s Khel Khel Mein is a romantic comedy led by Akshay Kumar, Taapsee Pannu and Vaani Kapoor, while John Abraham and Sharvari’s Vedaa is an action fare. While the three offerings belong to distinct genres, what’s surprising is the high demand for the holiday window, considering there are no movies releasing two weeks before and after.
A source says, “This happens when producers don’t expect a long run, owing to their films’ weak content. They just want to make as much money as they can over the long weekend.”
Exhibitor Raj Bansal hopes that at least one contender will bow out of the race. He says, “In such a situation, the biggest losers are the multiplex chains. Producers want their movies to arrive on long weekends because they think their offering will be the bigger grosser. Hopefully, one of the producers will follow the example of Ajay Devgn, who postponed Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha’s release.”
Trade analyst Atul Mohan adds that Vikram’s Tamil film Thangalaan and Puri Jagannadh’s Telugu offering Double iSmart may also release on the same date. “These films will draw the audiences in the south, which will reduce the number of shows for the Hindi releases.
Everybody will only be hoping that films, Stree 2, Khel Khel Mein, Vedaa work-Aparshakti Khurana
8:00 AM
Mugdha Kapoor (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 14, 2024)
Actor Aparshakti Khurana isn’t bothered by the upcoming box office clash between his film Stree 2, Akshay Kumar’s Khel Khel Mein and John Abraham’s Vedaa on August 15. He sees this as an opportunity for audiences to enjoy three excellent films over the extended Independence Day and Rakhi weekend.
“We (the film fraternity) are in a space right now where we have to root for each other. The current climate of the fraternity is such that I don’t think people will be looking down on each other or trying to pull each other down. Everybody will only be hoping that all three films work,” Khurana tells us, adding, “That is eventually how you grow together as an industry.”
Reflecting on Stree 2’s uniqueness, the 36-year-old highlights the continuity of its production team, sharing, “The reunion of the exact same team from Stree (2018), including the director, actors and ADs, filming in Chanderi (Madhya Pradesh) again, made it truly special.”
Acknowledging the pressure to match the prequel’s success, he admits, “You’re nervously excited after putting in so much effort. The teaser’s positive response reassures us; there’s hopeful anticipation.”
Abhishek Banerjee talks about Stree 2 and Vedaa clash: "You’ll see me in two opposite roles on same day"
7:58 AM
With Stree 2 and Vedaa set for a BO clash, Abhishek believes that holiday weekend will easily accommodate both films; says they will showcase his versatility
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 14, 2024)
It’s common for films to clash at the box office. What’s uncommon is for an actor’s two releases to clash with one another. Abhishek Banerjee will have two releases, Stree 2 and Vedaa, on August 15. “It took me back to the OG question of which parent do I love the most,” he laughs, when we get on a call with him.
“Being an only child, I was often asked this question and I could never answer it because I love them both equally. So, as destiny has put me in this situation again, I’ll pray for the well-being of both movies.”
Box-office clashes may be bad for business, but it’s good for an actor as it shows their versatility. Banerjee believes that a holiday weekend can accommodate multiple films.
“There is a lot of money to make as it’s a long weekend and the audience would crave a good movie. They will go for both if the movies are good. As an actor, what more could I have asked for? I came to Bombay to see myself in theatres, and the whole country will see me doing two polar opposite roles in the two most loved genres, action and comedy.”
Stree 2, led by Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor, comes six years after the much-loved first instalment. Naturally, the expectations are high, heightened further by the latest horror comedy, Munjya’s unexpected success.
“Stree is one of the most loved films of contemporary Indian cinema, and I know the excitement is high. When you have a hardworking and passionate director like Amar Kaushik, you’re in for a treat. I saw a few scenes while dubbing, and it turned out better than I had imagined while shooting.”
But it is Vedaa that the actor has kept an eye out for. Director Nikkhil Advani’s action entertainer sees him as an antagonist to John Abraham’s hero.
“It’s my first serious role in a theatrical outing. All my theatrical releases have been comedy. Thank God Nikkhil sir could see me in Vedaa; it takes a long time to gain the trust of directors that you can do different genres. I got to portray a full-fledged baddie and that too opposite John! I was a little nervous in the beginning, but John helped me feel comfortable and motivated me throughout the journey.”
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