MUMBAI: The remake of 1977 hit Amar Akbar Anthony will be launched by the end of this year.

The film is being produced by Sohail Khan in association with Tips, and is directed by David Dhawan. It will star all the three Khan brothers Salman as Amar, Sohail as Akbar and Arbaaz as Anthony.

The original film was the winner of three Filmfare Awards in 1978 for the Best Actor (Amitabh Bachchan), Best Editor (Kamlakar Karkahanis) and Best Music Director (Laxmikant Pyarelal).

Sources says the three female leads are still being finalised, and the film will definitely be launched by the end of 2007.

Salman Khan has allotted dates to Boney Kapoor’s Pokhiri, to be directed by Prabhu Devaa, from June onwards. He will then work on Subhash Ghai’s next, which is said to be a remake of Hollywood blockbuster Rain Man, where he plays the role played by Tom Cruise in the original.

Arbaaz Khan, who is tipped to play Amitabh’s role as Anthony, says, “It’s surely happening. Salman Khan and David Dhawan are committed to a few other projects. I am sure the film will commence by this year end.”