EntertainmentPosted at: Mar 12 2026 9:09PM


I don't want to risk doing a sequel to a hit film: director Priyadarshan

Mumbai, March 12 (UNI) Acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan, who is reuniting with Akshay Kumar after 14 years with "Bhooth Bangla",has candidly opined that he stays away from making sequels to his popular films, keeping in mind the pressure it puts on him to create the same impact on the box office numbers, if not less than the original one.
The director is known for hits such as "Hera Pheri" (2000), "Hungama" (2003), "Hulchul" (2004), "Garam Masala" (2005), "Bhool Bhulaiyaa" (2007) and "Bhagam Bhag" (2006). In the recent past, the sequels of his films have been taken ahead by different directors, like "Phir Hera Pheri" (Neeraj Vora) in 2006 and "Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2" (Anees Bazmee) in 2024.
In a conversation with Variety India, Priyadarshan shares his thoughts on sequels and other directors taking his franchise films ahead. He elaborated, "I don’t like to do sequels of my own films because I know how much I suffered to make the original. I am always tense about whether it will work. Finally, when it works, I don’t want to take a bigger burden the next time to make it work again."
Priyadarshan explained that sequels tend to work best when there is a clear narrative continuation, pointing to films like "The Terminator" and "Terminator 2: Judgment Day", where the storyline naturally progresses from one instalment to the next.
However, he observed that the makers are trying to utilise the fame of the previous film to pull the audience into the theatre. The audiences do come in for three or four days because of the aura of the first part and the films are able to clock some collections. But after that, the films are dropping. "So it’s a kind of exploitation. I would rather say it’s a kind of extortion of the first film. UNI NST SSP
Please log in to get detailed story.
Tags: #I don't want to risk doing a sequel to a hit film: director Priyadarshan
More News

Sanjay Dutt's 'Aakhri Sawaal' teaser released

14 Apr 2026 | 10:56 PM

Mumbai, Apr 14 (UNI) The makers of 'Aakhri Sawaal', featuring Sanjay Dutt, have unveiled an arresting teaser that showcases a bold and thought-provoking historical narrative.

see more..

Farhan Akhtar pays special tribute to Asha Bhosle at college fest

14 Apr 2026 | 7:01 PM

Mumbai, Apr 14 (UNI) Bollywood filmmaker, actor and singer Farhan Akhtar recently created a memorable moment at a college fest, delivering a tribute that transcended mere performance and struck a deeply emotional chord with the audience.

see more..

Ahaan Panday set to collaborate with Mohit Suri for third film

14 Apr 2026 | 6:59 PM

Mumbai, April 14 (UNI) Rising actor Ahaan Panday is set to join hands once again with filmmaker Mohit Suri for an upcoming romantic drama, marking their third collaboration.

see more..

Bhooth Bangla drops festive track 'O Sundari'

14 Apr 2026 | 4:59 PM

Mumbai, April 14 (UNI) The forthcoming horror-comedy "Bhooth Bangla", headlined by Akshay Kumar, has introduced its latest musical offering, 'O Sundari', a buoyant and visually resplendent track that further amplifies excitement around the film.

see more..

Vishwak Sen teams up with Koratala Siva's banner for new film

14 Apr 2026 | 3:25 PM

Hyderabad, April 14 (UNI) Telugu actor Vishwak Sen has signed a new project backed by filmmaker Koratala Siva’s production house, Yuvasudha Arts, adding yet another film to his already crowded slate.

see more..