'Race 2' to go on floors with Saif, Anil: Ramesh Taurani

By Joginder Tuteja

Mumbai, Nov 18 (IANS) If super-hit film "Race" had lots of suspense and stunts, its producer Ramesh Taurani promises more thrills and action in its sequel "Race 2" that will go on floors early next year with Saif Ali Khan and Anil Kapoor playing the main leads.

The sequel will be directed by Abbas-Mustan, who had made the 2007 hit "Race", but Taurani is tight-lipped about the leading ladies and whether Kareena Kapoor would be signed on for the sequel.

"In February or March 2010 'Race 2' will go on floors. The film will certainly be bigger and better than the first part. If you thought that the twists and turns in 'Race' were deadly, then watch out for the sequel. There are many more surprises in the offing," Taurani, who is riding high on the success of "Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani" produced by his banner Tips Music Films, told IANS.

The climax of "Race" was open-ended and two of the protagonists -- Akshaye Khanna and Katrina Kaif -- who were supposedly killed weren't actually shown dead on screen. Also, the relationship between the other two characters -- Saif and Bipasha Basu -- too had been left open for speculation.

"Along with Saif, even Anil Kapoor is finalised for 'Race 2'. These two are integral elements of the film and cannot be done away with. For the rest of the cast, the decision would be taken once the script is finalised. Expectations are so high from the film that we have to be doubly sure before we start shooting," said Taurani.

There have been reports that Kareena may team up with Saif in the film, but Taurani maintains no actress has been signed on so far.

"Whether Bipasha Basu, Katrina Kaif or Akshaye Khanna would be repeated in the sequel or if Kareena Kapoor would be added to the cast or would replace any of the earlier leading ladies is something I can't comment on right now. Let the script be ready and we will decide on the balance star cast," he said.

Taurani also rubbished rumours that Abbas-Mustan may not direct the sequel. "That's baseless. They are certainly directing the sequel," the producer said.

Taurani is quite gung-go about the film's prospects. "I can promise that just like 'Race', this one too is an expensive thriller and would be shot on a lavish scale in foreign locations. The action too would be many notches higher."

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