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The highly anticipated sequel to the 1996 blockbuster Indian, titled Indian 3, starring Kamal Haasan and directed by Shankar, has been temporarily put on hold. Director Shankar has announced that production will not resume until after the release of his upcoming Telugu film, Game Changer, slated for release during Sankranti next week. This decision comes in the wake of the mixed reception of Indian 2, the previous installment in the Indian franchise, which was released in July of last year. Indian 2, a reunion project for the director and star, saw a considerable backlash from critics and audiences alike. The film, while a continuation of the story of the freedom fighter-vigilante Senapathy, seemingly failed to capture the magic of the original. The overwhelmingly negative reviews and subsequent online trolling directed towards Shankar appear to have impacted the timeline of Indian 3, though the director maintains a stoic demeanor.
Shankar’s response to the criticism surrounding Indian 2 reveals a pragmatic approach to filmmaking and the realities of the industry. He acknowledges the right of critics to express their opinions and views negative reviews as challenges to overcome in his future work. He also underscores the significance of the large number of people dependent on the success of films. His comment about 'lakhs of workers' whose livelihoods rely on the film industry highlights a sensitive awareness of the broader economic impact of a film's success or failure. He also dismisses the online trolling as something he is not particularly bothered by, clearly prioritizing his professional responsibilities over personal attacks. This resilience speaks to a seasoned director’s understanding of the industry's inherent volatility and the need to maintain focus on upcoming projects.
The postponement of Indian 3 does not signal its cancellation. Shankar has explicitly stated his intention to resume work on the film as soon as Game Changer is released. He confirms that only a few portions of Indian 3 remain to be shot, suggesting that the delay may not be extensive. The anticipation surrounding Indian 3 remains high; its unique plot structure, aiming to function as both a sequel to Indian 2 and a prequel showcasing the story of Senapathy’s father, a freedom fighter, has attracted considerable curiosity. This narrative approach presents an ambitious storytelling challenge and raises questions about how successfully the filmmakers will manage this complicated timeline and interwoven history.
In the interim, all eyes are on Game Changer, Shankar’s Telugu debut. This political action thriller features Ram Charan in the lead role as an IAS officer, a significant departure from the director's previous work. The inclusion of other prominent actors like SJ Suryah, Kiara Advani, and Anjali suggests a concerted effort to make this film a success. The film’s January 10th release date is anticipated to provide insight into Shankar's current directorial style and his ability to adapt to a new cinematic landscape. Success with Game Changer could bolster confidence in Indian 3 and potentially smooth the path for a smoother production and release of the much-awaited sequel.
Ultimately, the story of Indian 3 is a reflection of the inherent risks and rewards in the film industry. The challenges encountered with Indian 2 illustrate the unpredictable nature of audience reception and the importance of resilience. However, the director’s continued commitment to the project and the clear intention to complete it underscores his belief in the story and his determination to bring it to fruition. The delay might well prove beneficial, providing time for careful planning and execution, ultimately resulting in a more polished and successful final product. The anticipation surrounding the continuation of Senapathy's story remains high, with fans and critics alike eager to witness the final chapter of this epic saga unfold.
Source: Director Shankar on ‘Indian 3’: We will restart work after ‘Game Changer’ release