Priyadarshan on Skipping Hera Pheri 3: 'Let It Be a Cult Film'
Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan, who directed the 2000 cult classicHera Pheri, has opened up about his decision to step away from directing its much-anticipated third installment. In an interview with Zoom, the director, who has helmed 98 films in five languages over a 40-year career, explained that he has never directed sequels to his own films—a convention he attributes to his belief that the magic of the original cannot be recreated. "I am not making the sequel of my own films. Other people are making the sequels of my films. I never made it," he said.
Priyadarshan expressed a fatalistic view of the sequel cycle, saying, "I always believe thatHera Pheri was born, the second was fallen sick, and the third may die. I feel it is done. The limit has been done in the first part. Now, you are trying to exploit the franchise." His remarks come as the filmmaker turns his attention toHaiwaan, an upcoming feature starring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, slated for release on September 11, 2026. The film is an adaptation of the Malayalam movieOppam, which featured Mohanlal and Samuthirakani in lead roles.
The director's skepticism about sequels was echoed by actor Boman Irani, who shared his own thoughts in the same interview. "When it succeeded, there was a magic happening in a space of time," Irani said. "I feel magic can't be created as far as the cinema is concerned. I agree with Priyam sir. I have done only one sequel. I hope it works. Let's live with the legacy and be grateful for it."
Priyadarshan elaborated on the pressures of living up to audience expectations, admitting that the challenge of satisfying viewers has only grown over the years. "The magic I don't think can work again," he remarked. "Everybody has huge expectations. The biggest problem I faced in her 40-year-long career was that the expectations are increasing, and whatever you do, they will not be happy or satisfied. So, why do you want to try it? Just leave it as an original. It is a cult film. Let it be like that."
Regarding the highly anticipatedHera Pheri 3, reports had indicated that Priyadarshan was in talks to direct. However, he has now confirmed his exit, leaving the project's future uncertain. The film, which has been in the news for its potential casting, has yet to start production, according to reports.
Meanwhile,Haiwaan is not the only project potentially bringing Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar together. Reports suggest the duo might collaborate on a separate film centered around wildlife conservation, with Kumar playing a tracker and hunter inspired by Jim Corbett. However, this project has not been officially announced.
As forHaiwaan, the film is set to hit theatres next year, promising audiences a cinematic experience that, according to its director, carries its own unique legacy.