Why does this always happen to him? Rockstar on hold By: Vickey Lalwani January 17, 2007
Imtiaz Ali Not too long ago, John Abraham was extremely charged about Imtiaz Alis second film Rockstar, for which he has been taking guitar lessons regularly. The actors dream of playing the title role has been squashed for the time being any way. The films producers, UTV, are not involved with the project any longer. So Ali has kept Rockstar aside and moved on to work on a different film with Vipul Shah Productions, starring Akshay Kumar. Apparently, Ali and UTV had differences and went their separate ways. Our source says, UTV kept Ali hanging for a long time. They had signed John for two films Imtiazs project and the other one with kids selected from the John Aur Kaun contest. When it came to starting Imtiazs film, Vivek Agnihotris Goal came into the picture and UTV used Johns dates (originally meant for Rockstar) for Goal. Johns next batch of dates with UTV was a long way off, and that was scheduled for the film with kids. Ali was shocked and disappointed. He had a word with UTV, and told them he couldnt wait that long and would rather move out. John Abraham Patchy path When contacted, Ali confirms the news, Yes. Rockstar is not happening right now. I hope to work with UTV again. There are certain films which only UTV can make, and I would like to take their expertise and skill then. Ali, who directed the telly serial Imtihan before Socha Na Tha, hopes to start Rockstar after completing Vipuls film. But now, Ill have to take it to another producer. Ali has had a rough passage in the industry. Socha Na Tha took too long to complete. Then, he was supposed to start Geet with Bobby Deol and Ayesha Takia for HMV and Shreya Creations in March 2006. He was also in talks with Shabbir Boxwalla on a film for Sahara One, titled Highway, starring Sunny Deol. Neither of these two projects went on the floors. Not without John If and when Rockstar happens, Ali will not look beyond Abraham. John is still taking guitar lessons and is in regular touch with me, says the director. Vipuls film starts in June. Ali says that the film is a love triangle. The leading ladies are yet to be finalised. Some names are on the table but Ali does not want to disclose them until the final decision is taken. All I can say now is that both female faces will be big names, Ali concludes. http://www.mid-day.com/hitlist/2007/january/150258.htm
