Mumbai: This year, the Hindi film industry has witnessed a remarkable success story with the release of “Stree 2,” which has captivated audiences and shattered box office records. The horror-comedy, starring Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor, has managed to rake in a staggering Rs 608 crore, firmly establishing itself as one of the biggest blockbusters of the year. Behind this incredible franchise stands Amar Kaushik, the visionary director who has nurtured and expanded the “Stree” universe, affectionately referring to it as his own ‘Harry Potter.’
A significant factor contributing to the overwhelming success of “Stree 2” is its engaging storyline and the clever inclusion of cameos. Among these, Akshay Kumar’s appearance has left a lasting impression on the audience. As fans eagerly speculate about the possible return of Kumar in the much-anticipated “Stree 3,” Kaushik offers insights into whether the superstar will grace the next installment with his presence.
In an exclusive interview with ANI, Kaushik shared, “It depends on the script. If the story demands it, he (Akshay Kumar) would be seen. Otherwise, he won’t be.” This statement leaves the door open for Kumar’s return, maintaining suspense and excitement among fans.
Diving deeper into the subject of “Stree 3,” Kaushik revealed insights into the production timelines and his future plans for the franchise. “I think ‘Stree 2’ took six years to make from the first film. However, ‘Stree 3’ won’t take six years; it will take at least three years,” said Kaushik. The director attributed the success of “Stree 2” to the collective efforts of the entire team, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the audience and everyone involved in the project. “I am thankful to the audience and everyone who watched the film and shared messages. We have to put in a lot of hard work, and the credit goes to everyone, including the stars, producers, and technicians,” he said.
Kaushik’s journey as a filmmaker reveals his nuanced understanding of both the art and commerce of filmmaking. He previously caught the industry’s attention with films like “Bhediya,” starring Varun Dhawan, showcasing his versatility and ability to handle diverse genres.
. In discussing the making of “Stree 2,” Kaushik emphasized the importance of a well-crafted script and the significance of maintaining high standards in all production aspects.
Akshay Kumar’s involvement in the franchise has added a layer of intrigue and excitement, with his surprise cameo in “Stree 2” becoming a topic of widespread discussion. Kaushik’s comments about the inclusion of significant characters underscore his commitment to storytelling over star power alone. The director’s strategy focuses on narrative necessity, ensuring that each character’s return or introduction is justified within the storyline.
Beyond his work in the “Stree” franchise, Amar Kaushik has been at the forefront of innovative storytelling in Bollywood. His unique vision and dedication to his craft have earned him a place among the most respected filmmakers in the industry today. His film “Bhediya,” another testament to his storytelling prowess, explores different themes while maintaining his signature style.
Reflecting on the success of “Stree 2,” Kaushik shared emotional insights into what keeps him motivated. “The appreciation from audiences and the joy they derive from our stories are what drive me. The six-year gap between the first and second films was filled with meticulous planning and hard work. For ‘Stree 3’, we aim to deliver an equally enthralling experience in a shorter time frame,” he remarked.
As the franchise marches towards its next chapter, the anticipation among fans remains high. The possibility of Akshay Kumar’s return, combined with Amar Kaushik’s creative vision, promises to keep the excitement alive. The director’s thoughtful approach to filmmaking, balancing audience expectations with artistic integrity, continues to drive the franchise’s success and set new benchmarks in the industry.
In conclusion, “Stree 2” has not only proven to be a commercial success but also a critical one, garnering praise for its inventive blend of horror and humor. As Amar Kaushik charts the course for “Stree 3,” the industry watches with bated breath. Whether or not Akshay Kumar reprises his role, Kaushik’s dedication to compelling storytelling assures that the future of the “Stree” universe remains bright and full of possibilities.
