Not Salman Khan, But Arjun Kapoor to Play the Lead in No Entry Sequel?

One of producer Boney Kapoor's biggest hits was the 2005 comedy film No Entry. The movie starred Anil Kapoor, Salman Khan, Fardeen Khan, Bipasha Basu, Lara Dutta, Celina Jaitley and Esha Deol in the lead, and one of the biggest successes of the year. Since then, we have been hearing rumours about No Entry having a sequel. But as the years have gone by, the rumours were dying a slow death, with Fardeen Khan unofficially retiring from acting and Salman Khan showing a lack of interest to return to the project.

However, Boney Kapoor has not let go of his wish to make the sequel it seems, going by the latest report in Mid-Day. If the report is to be believed, he wants to cast his son Arjun Kapoor in the lead this time. Which means only one thing - Salman Khan is most probably out! Also, Kapoor is looking to retain Anees Bazmee as the director, who has helmed the first movie. Anees has also directed Arjun Kapoor in last year's comedy flick, Mubarakan.

A source close to the development told the publication, "The movie is currently in the scripting stage. But the story is such that it requires a new cast. Though several names are being discussed, Boney is keen that Arjun leads the pack. Given the success of Mubarakan, Boney feels director Anees Bazmee and Arjun make a strong team."

Another source revealed that Boney Kapoor will focus on the No Entry sequel, once he is done with his upcoming film with Ajay Devgn. The source said, "Boney Sir is currently focusing on his film with Ajay Devgn. It’s only when this film rolls, will he set his sights on No Entry sequel. It’s too early to talk."

The question remains - can Arjun Kapoor be a viable replacement for Salman Khan? The young actor definitely has the knack to make you laugh, as seen in Mubarakan, and he has a decent box office appeal. And it also makes sense to make the sequel with a new set of actors. However, in the times of #MeToo, we don't know if a movie about married men wanting to cheat on their wives will be accepted as whole-heartedly as back in 2005.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 20, 2018 11:16 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).