Last year, it was reported that Shah Rukh Khan's "King" will have six major action sequences, with three planned to be shot on real locations and the other three in studios. One of them has reportedly changed plans due to the ongoing tension in the Middle East.
An action sequence for the Siddharth Anand directorial, which was supposed to be shot in the desert in Dubai, has been cancelled, according to a source who spoke to Mid-Day. The new plan would be to create a desert atmosphere in Mumbai.
According to the source, the action sequence, which involves Anil Kapoor and Suhana Khan, was originally planned to begin filming on April 9 and would've lasted a week, for which they had obtained the necessary permission too.
“The team had procured the necessary permissions to shoot in the emirate. It was supposed to be a week-long schedule from April 9. But given the dynamic situation in the region, the makers decided not to take any risk with the cast and crew's safety,” said the source.
The desert set is now being set up at a studio in Mumbai’s Vile Parle to allow uninterrupted shooting. The Mumbai studio is said to be a blessing in disguise, apparently. “They've gone all out to match the scale that Siddharth envisioned for the set-piece," the source further added. "In fact, this gives them more control over action beats and lighting. The sequence begins with a chase, resulting in an intense combat.”
Aside from Shah Rukh Khan, Suhana Khan and Anil Kapoor, the film also features Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Deepika Padukone, Arshad Warsi, Jaideep Ahlawat, Saurabh Shukla, Abhay Verma and Raghav Juyal in key roles.
The makers are aiming for a December 24 release this year.
