Saif bana Joker

After SRK and Akshay Kumar turn it down, Shirish Kunder signs the Chote Nawab for his film

Shirish Kunder has been trying for long to get his project Joker on track. The film was initially offered to Shah Rukh Khan and later, to Akshay Kumar. Both said no. It is reliably learnt that Kunder has now pencilled in Saif Ali Khan for the lead role.

The director and the actor are currently working on the shoot schedule as the project has been delayed extensively. Incidentally, Shirish had announced Joker after his directorial debut Jaan-E-Mann.

Opting out

Says a source, “Shirish has been trying hard to get a lead actor for Joker. First, he had an okay from Shah Rukh Khan — given his family relations with him because of wife Farah Khan. SRK opted out because of creative differences after a few script meetings.

After his exit, he approached Akshay Kumar, who featured in Jaan-E-Mann. Akki liked the action hero image and agreed to do it. But recently, when the director went to finalise the details, Akki told him he had no time.”

Continues the source,“With two actors walking out, Shirish was in a dilemma. He met Saif Ali Khan socially and asked if he could give him a narration. The actor agreed and the two met recently.

Like the other actors, Saif loved the story idea and has given his nod for it. Saif is currently in London and once he returns, the director will sign him for the film.”

Wait for it

Says Shirish, “I am in the midst of the pre-production of the film. I don’t want to reveal anything at this stage. There is a big company co-producing the film with me and we will make an announcement soon.”

When asked about Saif, Shirish says, “Wait and watch. That’s all I can say.”

Author: Amul Sharma | Source: Mid-Day