KANK fails to live up to hopes!

Karan Johar's much-awaited "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" (KANK), revolving around modern day relationships, opened Friday to a rather lukewarm response.

The multi-starrer, which has all the ingredients of a Johar film, has failed to live up to the lofty pre-release hype. KANK stars Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Preity Zinta and Abhishek Bachchan.

"It has got a lukewarm response at single screens and it is getting mixed reviews," said an informed source on condition of anonymity.

However, Saurabh Varma, vice president of PVR Cinemas, feels it is too early to give a verdict.

"Unlike other films, 'Kabhi Alvida...' has the advantage of a five-day extended weekend. It has got a phenomenal opening and the seats are booked till Wednesday. I think the ultimate verdict will come only after Wednesday," said Varma told.

However, trade pundits feel Johar splurged money on the film and that the film's box office collection might not be able to match its cost.

"Investment in the film is very high. It cost over Rs.500 million and therefore, a lot is at stake for Karan Johar," added the source.