MUMBAI: It was common knowledge that Ranbir Kapoor had two films in 2013. He’s already had a blockbuster hit in ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’ and an upcoming (potential) hit in ‘Besharam’. Next year, he has Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Bombay Velvet’ and most probably Imtiaz Ali’s next film. Where does ‘Roy’ fit into tall this?
The first look of ‘Roy’, releasing in 2014, was revealed a week ago and Ranbir Kapoor’s face was plastered over it. Arjun Rampal and Jacqueline Fernandez too were featured on the poster, but position of pride clearly belonged to Ranbir Kapoor.
It was reported recently that Ranbir Kapoor charged Rs 15 crore for every film he starred in. That includes ‘Roy’ too, in which he has only an extended cameo appearance. But does that give the makers permission to use his name on the poster and promos? Apparently, Ranbir Kapoor himself has given them the permission.
Ranbir Kapoor’s name will obviously be a big push to the film. ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’ soared on his youthfulness, while ‘Besharam’ too is looking to be another hit on his hands. Of course, his role in ‘Roy’ is understandably much more darker. But if his name can get more people to see the film, why not?
The move could also backfire if Ranbir Kapoor has a minimal role in the film and movie-goers end up being angry at the makers for misleading them. Anyway, till then, we can just wait and watch.
‘Roy’, starring Arjun Rampal and Jacqueline Fernandez, releases on 20 June 2014.
