All you needed to know about this week’s big release, Shamitabh

This week’s release, Shamitabh, is one of the big-ticket films of the year.  Here’s what’s gone into its making.

Shamitabh is the third in a series of films by off-beat director Balki and Amitabh Bachchan. Their previous two were Cheeni Kum, a funny, but touching May-December romance and Paa, both of which went on to become hits.

Shamitabh sees top Kollywood hero Dhanush venturing into Bollywood for the second time after Raanjhaana. What’s more, he’ll be sharing screen space with the Big B.

Image source: vishwagujarat.com
Image source: vishwagujarat.com

Shamitabh is also the launch vehicle for Akshara, daughter of the legendary Kamal Haasan. Balki said in an interview that seeing Akshara act he was convinced about the power of genes.

Balki is a director who works in a comfort zone and for him that space includes ace cinematographer P.C Sreeram and music maestro Ilayaraja. They are part of Shamitabh as well.

Image source: businessofcinema.com
Image source: businessofcinema.com

In Cheeni Kum, which starred Amitabh Bachchan and Tabu, the background score included yesteryear hits of Ilayaraja. Audiences can expect more vintage classics in Shamitabh.

Going by early reports about the story, we’ve learnt that Dhanush will be playing the angry young man to Amitabh’s easygoing character. Akshara is cast in the role of peacemaker between the two contrasting characters.

Balki has said in an interview to Ananda Vikatan magazine that there won’t be romance or action in the film. So, another off-beat film about emotions is what it’s most likely to be.