Murder 2 in making; Sherawat not final

MUMBAI: Agreed she made news with her film Khwaish, but Mallika Sherawat became the hot property in Bollywood only after Murder. The film was an instant hit, and after that there was no looking back for the actress.

So, after six years, the plan for a sequel to Murder is on, and Mallika, who is in India for her film Hissss promotion and Double Dhamaal shoot, is reported to be visiting Bhatt’s office quite often. The actress is keen to be part of the sequel.

Now, that’s surprising because Mallika and Bhatts were not on talking terms ever since she took the credit for the success of Murder and told media that she is solely responsible for the movie being a hit. But last year the differences were sorted out between the two parties.

As Mukesh Bhatt tells a tabloid, “Mallika has been meeting us for the last few days. Discussions are on and she’s a strong contender.” However, earlier reports suggested that some newcomer will be signed opposite Emraan Hashmi.

The sequel will be helmed not by Anurag Basu but by Mohit Suri, who is like family to the Bhatts and has directed some of their recent films. Suri is busy finishing the script of Murder 2.

The source adds, "After Murder, producers Mahesh and Mukesh Bhatt and the film's lead hero Emraan had been very upset with Mallika for telling the media that she was solely responsible for the success of the film.

She further alienated her mentors by saying outrageous stuff about them. Last year, they patched up. Though she didn't sign a film with them after that, they shared cordial ties."

The source further adds that Emraan is not too happy about Mallika being in the sequel. "They never got along, even during Murder and he was most upset when she took the entire credit for the film's success.

He felt it was childish of her. Also, Mukesh and Emraan want a young new girl as the female lead."

A source close to Emraan says, "The casting will be finalised next week. Mohit is lending finishing touches to the script and when Emraan (currently in Pattaya, Thailand) returns to Mumbai, they will take a call on everything. Mohit will lock the actress in a week and start shooting next month."

Says a diplomatic Emraan, "I'm fine with whoever the producer and director signs. If the makers feel Mallika suits the role I am fine with it. I don't impose my views on casting."

Says Mukesh, "Mallika has been meeting us for the last few days. Discussions are on and she's a strong contender.

We are exploring various options. Mohit and Mahesh will make the final call. Murder 2 will be shot in exotic locations abroad."

Mukesh says Mohit Suri (and not the original's director, Anurag Basu) is directing because the latter is busy with his next Rockstar with Ranbir Kapoor. "Mohit is not just part of the company, he's also family," says Bhatt.