Over half a decade ago, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie had played a couple who were pretty much in love, but were forced to take on each other due to professional commitments. Though this had happened just for a film (Mr. & Mrs. Smith), it is happening in reality for the filmmaker jodi Farah Khan and Shirish Kunder. Even though they could have never imagined finding themselves in such a spot, they are pretty much finding themselves in a war-like situation, what with their respective films – Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi and Joker – being pitched opposite each other.
Farah Khan and Shirish Kunder
“None of the two can be expected to be fine with such a situation but that is indeed happening”, says a source, “While Farah’s first film as an actress, Shirin Farhad… releases on 24 August, exactly a week later Shirish’s Joker would also arrive. Since it’s a biggie, it would enjoy a very wide release for itself.”
Akshay Kumar in Joker and Salman Khan in Ek Tha Tiger
On the other hand makers of Shirin Farhad… (Sanjay Leela Bhansali) are confident that just like many other small/medium budget films this year (like Vicky Donor, Kahaani, Ishaqzaade, etc), even their film will march along despite competition from Akshay Kumar (Joker) and Salman Khan (whose Ek Tha Tiger would still be in the running after releasing on 15 August).
“However for Farah in particular it is a double edged sword because she is making her debut as a leading lady in ‘Shirin Farhad…’ while ‘Joker’ is her own production. It is a tough call for her because other than promoting both the films, she would also be conscious of two things. One, her Joker should make good money and two, she should get good recognition as an actress with Shirin Farhad…,” says a common friend.
One does wonder though if it is all being handled amicably between the couple or has there been a war since Shirish had announced the arrival of Joker much in advance. While neither of the two were available for comment, one waits to see whether either of the two would have any change in plans.
