| Madhur Bhandarkar has narrowed down three names for the lead role in his forthcoming film, Signal, to be produced jointly by Sahara and Percept Picture Company.
According to a source close to him, "It will either be Ajay Devgan, Vivek Oberoi or John Abraham. Madhur is very keen on Ajay. Let's see who gets it; all three are big, busy stars. It will also depend on the availability of dates, as Madhur wants to start Signal in February." What is the role like?
The source reveals, "It's a bhai's role; a man who collects hafta at the city's signals. Madhur needs someone who looks very rugged. He will soon be talking to Ajay, Vivek and John — I don't know who he will approach first." Missing Smita Patil
When contacted, Bhandarkar said, "Yes, I am looking at Ajay, Vivek and John." What about the girl's role? Bhandarkar says he needs a girl to play a gajra-seller. "I want someone who has no qualms about playing such a character. This casting is not going to be easy — this will be one of the most difficult roles enacted on the Indian screen; a typical Smita Patil role." Rs 6.5 crore budget
Unlike Bhandarkar's other films, Signal will be a relatively expensive project, shot completely in Mumbai.
The film, the last of the trilogy comprising Page 3 and Corporate, will take a harsh, realistic look at Mumbai's street life. Says Bhandarkar, "The estimated budget is Rs 6.5 crore. A special outdoor set will be constructed in the city over an expanse of two kilometres." Obviously, Bhandarkar is not going to shoot with big stars at real signals, eh?
Currently shooting Corporate, starring Bipasha Basu, Kay Kay Menon, Sameer Dattani, Harsh Chhaya, Payal Rohatgi and Achint Kaur, Bhandarkar intends to wrap up the film by January. |
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