Oh My God sequel already on its way

Plus: Kapoor casts son Arjun for Okkadu remake; Zhang Yimou to be feted at Mumbai film festival.

Paresh Rawal in a scene from Oh My God. Courtesy Grazing Goat Pictures

Oh My God sequel already on its way

After the box office success of Oh My God, which was released last week, the film's director Umesh Shukla says he has begun writing the script for a sequel. "Yes, plans are in order. In fact, me and a scriptwriter have started working on it. [The lead actors] Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal are also keen about it," said Shukla. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Rawal said: "It all depends on the script - if we get a good script, then we will make a sequel. We are just thinking about it, but right now we are just enjoying the success of the film." * IANS

Kapoor casts son Arjun for Okkadu remake

The filmmaker Boney Kapoor is set to produce the remake of the 2003 hit Telugu film Okkadu and has roped in his son Arjun Kapoor to play the lead. "Eros Pictures has bought the rights of the film. The film will begin shooting in June 2013," said Kapoor. "Arjun is busy with other projects including Aurangazeb, Gundey and 2 States - once he is done with these films, he will start shooting for my remake." Kapoor said he has yet to cast the film's leading lady. "The role is not yet finalised. I hope to be able to find someone in the next two weeks and then I'll announce more details." Directed by Gunasekhar, the original Telugu film starred Mahesh Babu and Bhumika Chawla. * IANS

Zhang Yimou to be feted at Mumbai festival

The acclaimed Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou has been chosen to receive the International Lifetime Achievement Award at the 14th Mumbai Film Festival (MFF), to be held from October 18 to 25. One of China's most prominent directors, Zhang has helmed such films as Hero and House of Flying Daggers. He also directed the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Last year, Morgan Freeman received the award at MFF, an annual initiative by the Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image. In the Indian cinema category, the veteran actress Waheeda Rahman will receive the award. The MFF will be hosted at the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Mumbai. * IANS