Why is Anil-Nana's absence a problem, asks 'Welcome 3' director
What's the story
Ahmed Khan, the director of the upcoming film Welcome to the Jungle, has defended Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar's absence in the comic caper. Speaking on SCREEN Spotlight, he said, "Why is that a problem? I didn't make Baaghi 4, someone else (A Harsha) did." "I'm making Welcome 3, and Anees Bazmee [who helmed Welcome and Welcome Back] made Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and 3." "The first one was directed by Priyadarshan."
Franchise evolution
Khan emphasized the importance of change in franchises
Khan further cited examples from other successful franchises, saying, "Akshay (Kumar) was in Welcome (2007), John (Abraham) was in Welcome Back (2015)." "Akshay was in Bhool Bhulaiyaa; now, Kartik (Aaryan) is in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and 3." "You can only stretch something to an extent. After that, it snaps. Every film has its limits, but a franchise doesn't." "In Welcome, John replaced Akshay in the sequel, so the link in the story was cut." "Now, Akshay is back again."
New direction
Khan's vision for 'Welcome to the Jungle'
Khan, who was a choreographer on the first film, has also attempted to reinvent the Welcome franchise with a threequel that is designed as an adventure comedy. He said, "Welcome had black suits, buildings, and girls in shimmery clothes. What we've done is get them into army fatigues." "We've completely changed the terrain and concept into army style. Otherwise, they'd keep singing the same tune in the same suits."
Comedy style
Khan's take on the film's humor
Khan also clarified that Welcome to the Jungle is not a slapstick comedy. He explained, "If you mute the film, you'll see they're talking very seriously, with guns in their hands. But if you dial up the volume, you'll think, 'What are these idiots doing?' They're talking rubbish to each other, but with poker faces." The film features an ensemble cast including Kumar, Lara Dutta, Paresh Rawal, and Arshad Warsi, among others. It will release early next year.