Priyadarshan's Top Choice: Akshay Kumar is His Go-To Star for Comedy Films

Director Priyadarshan has named Akshay Kumar as his first preference when casting for Hindi comedy films, citing a strong comfort level in their collaboration. The duo is reuniting for the upcoming horror-comedy 'Bhooth Bangla', set for an April 10 theatrical release. Priyadarshan reflected that their iconic film 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' was initially conceived as a psychological thriller, not a horror-comedy. He explained his signature style of blending situational humour into tense genres, a formula being used in their new project.

Key Points: Priyadarshan Says Akshay Kumar is His First Preference for Comedy

  • Priyadarshan's casting priority
  • Upcoming film 'Bhooth Bangla'
  • Reflection on 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa'
  • Horror-comedy genre explained
  • New film's star-studded cast
2 min read

"My first preference is Akshay": Director Priyadarshan on his casting priority for comedy films

Director Priyadarshan reveals Akshay Kumar is his top choice for Hindi comedies, discussing their new film 'Bhooth Bangla' and past collaborations.

"My first preference is Akshay": Director Priyadarshan on his casting priority for comedy films
"Whenever I think of humour, my first preference is Akshay. - Priyadarshan"

Mumbai, March 23

Director Priyadarshan, who is known for helming cult hits like 'Bhagam Bhag', Malamaal Weekly', 'Chup Chup Ke', 'Hera Pheri' and others, called Bollywood star Akshay Kumar his first "preference" when it comes to Hindi comedy movies.

Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar are set to collaborate for the upcoming horror comedy film 'Bhooth Bangla' which is set to release in theatres on April 10. The duo had earlier worked together in movies like 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa', 'Bhagam Bhag', Hera Pheri' and 'Garam Masala'.

While talking to ANI, Priyadarshan opened up about his casting process in the films, saying that he decides the actor after writing the script, noting that for humour, Akshay Kumar is his top choice due to both preference and comfort working with him.

"I think about my script first. Then I decide who is right for it. Whenever I think of humour, my first preference is Akshay. More than anything, it's my comfort level of working with him," said Priyadarshan.

The director also reflected on the making of Bhool Bhulaiya and noted that the film was originally supposed to be a psychological thriller rather than a horror comedy.

"No, we didn't think about horror comedy when we made Bhool Bhulaiya. We just thought of a film which is a psychological thriller, but if you watch any of my films, there will be a lot of humour," said Priyadarshan.

He continued, "From the day I started my career, I have been doing that. I like situational humour. So, I also tried to put a little bit of humour into horror because when you go to watch a horror film, people will be a little tense. So, they actually look for a chance to laugh a little bit at that. That is how we have decided to make films in the genre of horror comedy. In Bhooth Bangla, there are also sequences which are very tense. At the same time, there is a lot of humour in the film. So, this is a nice combination. People like both."

Meanwhile, Bhooth Bangla is presented by Balaji Motion Pictures, a division of Balaji Telefilms Ltd, in association with Cape of Good Films.

The film also stars Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Tabu and Wamiqa Gabbi in prominent roles.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's interesting to hear that Bhool Bhulaiyaa wasn't originally conceived as a horror comedy. The blend of genres is what made it a classic. Priyadarshan really understands the audience's need for a release from tension.
A
Ananya R
While I love their combo, I do wish Priyadarshan sir would also consider other talented actors for comedy. There's so much fresh talent out there. The comfort with Akshay is great, but variety is the spice of life, na?
V
Vikram M
The supporting cast is stellar! Paresh Rawal and Rajpal Yadav with Priyadarshan-Akshay? That's a guarantee of pure entertainment. Their earlier films defined comedy for a generation.
D
David E
As someone who enjoys Indian cinema, the director's insight into situational humour is spot on. It's not just about punchlines, it's about the context. Looking forward to seeing this new collaboration.
P
Priya S
True yaar, their chemistry is unbeatable. When a director and actor have that comfort level, it shows on screen. Hope Bhooth Bangla brings back the classic Priyadarshan comedy magic we've been missing.

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