The recently released Hindi horror thriller “Shaitaan,” starring Ajay Devgn and Jyothika, has defied initial mixed reviews and achieved decent box office numbers. The film’s gripping narrative, which centers on hypnotism and black magic, has resonated with audiences, leading to the addition of extra shows.
This success has reportedly piqued the interest of Telugu star Venkatesh, who is considering a remake in Telugu. While the concept of “Shaitaan” appeals to Venkatesh, the project comes with a significant risk.
Despite Devgn’s star power, the film was undeniably dominated by R. Madhavan’s portrayal of the chilling villain. Madhavan’s performance, particularly in the climax, is said to be genuinely terrifying. This raises concerns for a potential Telugu remake.
The role played by Madhavan offers limited acting opportunities, potentially underwhelming an actor of Venkatesh’s caliber. Additionally, if Venkatesh opts for the villainous role, it might alienate his core family audience who may not be receptive to him in such a dark character. This was evident in the rejection of his action role in “Saindhav” and the criticism faced by his series “Rana Naidu.”
The villainous character in “Shaitaan” is central to the film’s success. A top actor cast opposite Venkatesh could overshadow him entirely, while a lesser-known actor might not be able to deliver the necessary impact. This creates a casting dilemma for a potential remake.
The possibility of a Telugu “Shaitaan” remake is currently under discussion. Venkatesh previously explored a Malayalam remake but ultimately opted out. His focus at present lies on the second season of “Rana Naidu” and an upcoming film with director Anil Ravipudi.
Only time will tell if Venkatesh decides to take on the challenge of remaking “Shaitaan” and how he navigates the casting complexities to deliver a Telugu version that resonates with audiences.
