Imran in Punit Malhotra's next

It took them two years, but Imran Khan, Punit Malhotra and Karan Johar have reunited for a film. The actor, director and producer last worked together in 2010's I Hate Luv Storys (IHLS).

Commenting on the delay, Punit notes, "I always wanted Imran for my film. He was my first choice. We did have some differences on the script initially and lost around six months in sorting that out. But now we are both on the same page.'' Punit adds, "There's a method to all our madness. Imran, Karan and I are at a happy place as far as this film goes. The nice thing about the three of us collaborating is that we are in familiar territory and the comfort levels will help us make the nicely ambitious film that we're hoping to.''

Is it a romantic comedy again? "It will ultimately be categorised as a love story,'' says the IHLS director. "It's got that vibe. But this time around the script has much more to offer.'' Imran called in to say, "Dharma has become a second home... giving me the chance to work in two successful films ' I Hate Luv Storys (2010) and Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu (2012) ' in the past two years. I'm very excited to team up with Punit once again, since we had such a great working relationship on IHLS. I'm looking forward to making yet another special film together.''

Adds Johar, "Punit, Imran and I are back together making a super fun yet poignant film. We are in the process of casting the female lead as she has a challenging part and we want someone who would have perfect chemistry with Imran.''

Produced by Dharma Productions, the new film goes on floors in October this year and is slated for a mid-2013 release.