Joker v/s Raaz 3 clash inevitable as Bhatts, Shirish refuse to budge

 There are quite a few interesting clashes that Akshay Kumar films would be involved in months to come. While news around his Khiladi 786 - Made In Punjab taking on Shah Rukh Khan's yet untitled film with Yash Chopra next Diwali has already spread like wildfire, there would be some intermittent challenges ahead as well. His sci-fi fantasy thriller Joker has chosen 30th August for its arrival. However, this is the same date on which Emraan Hashmi had already staked his claim months ago for Raaz 3.


"Sudden announcement of Joker for August next year has caught many by surprise", says an industry insider, "However Bhatts are sure that they won't change their plans for Raaz 3."


Bhatts have their own reasons to stick to their plans as not just were they first to announce Raaz 3; they had postponed the release date earlier as well since Salman was planning to come with Ek Tha Tiger then. It's a different matter that now Aamir Khan occupies the post-IPL release slot but it was after much deliberation that plans were confirmed for Emraan's Raaz 3. On the other hand, Joker was the least suspected film for a clash since everyone thought that the film would release a little earlier, considering the fact that its entire shoot is now through.


"However, Shirish Kunder wanted more time for the post production of the film as it involves lots of VFX and 3D work. He wants to dedicate full nine months in the film before bringing it on screens. Since Akshay's Khiladi 786... has been confirmed for Diwali now and Rowdy Rathore is coming in June, Shirish has to find a good slot as well in between these biggies", says a close associate.


Bhatts are not convinced though and feel it is unfair that they may have to sit and draw plans all over again; more so because they strongly feel that Raaz is a brand in itself and withstand any major competition. On contacting, Mukesh Bhatt said, "Whether it is Joker or any other film, our plan is final. We have three of our films releasing next year, including Jannat 2 and Blood Money. Our company can't afford to move around release dates now. 31st August is final."


Though Shirish was unavailable for comment, sources close to him insist that he isn't open for any readjustments either. With none of the two films willing to bend, looks like there would indeed be a clash of fantasy v/s horror all set to take place.