Mumbai: Fifteen years after ‘The Dirty Picture’ made waves with Vidya Balan’s bold portrayal of Silk Smitha, producer Ektaa Kapoor is set to revisit the film’s world with a sequel.
Ektaa has confirmed that ‘The Dirty Picture 2’ is in the works, revealing that she now has a story she wants to bring to the screen. However, details about the lead actor, cast and release date remain under wraps.
During a conversation with Ranveer Allahbadia on his podcast, Ektaa opened up about what prompted her to revisit the franchise, explaining that she now has a story she feels is worth sharing with audiences.
“One very big film I’m making is The Dirty Picture 2. I’m planning it after 15 years. This time, I believe there is a story I want to tell. The Dirty Picture was about Silk Smitha. It was about a woman who was condemned for standing up against her sexuality. Ab sexuality is about your choice. Maine kabhi usse victim ki tarah nahi dekha. I saw her as someone who celebrated her sexuality, and the film did so well,” she said.
Ektaa further revealed that the sequel would also revolve around an individual’s story, though she refrained from disclosing who it would be about.
Released in December 2011, The Dirty Picture was inspired by the life of South Indian actress Silk Smitha.
The film chronicled her rise in the entertainment industry and the challenges she faced. Smitha appeared in more than 450 films during her 18-year career and died by suicide at the age of 35 at her Chennai residence.
Vidya Balan won the National Film Award for Best Actress for her performance in the film.
In 2012, the actress reflected on her experience of making the film, describing the opportunity to play Silk Smitha and work with the team as a reward in itself.
“I just knew one thing: we all were trying to make a good film. As long as you know that nothing is in your control. I was saying to Milan (Luthria, the director) that the film has released two months back and now I want to watch the film again. We have such wonderful memories with this film. I would be glad to watch this film on DVD,” she said.
“I think the biggest award was The Dirty Picture. I got an opportunity to play Silk and to work with this team is the biggest award. Everybody have loved this film and we are grateful for that,” she added.