Pankaj Kapur, Dimple Kapadia to star in Saurabh Shukla's romantic comedy Jab Khuli Kitaab

Actor, screenwriter and filmmaker Saurabh Shukla's next directorial venture, Jab Khuli Kitaab, will star veteran artistes Pankaj Kapur and Dimple Kapadia. The film, an adaptation of Shukla's play of the same name, will be backed by Applause Entertainment in association with Shoe Strap Films. The project, which tells the story of an older couple seeking a divorce after fifty years together, will feature Aparshakti Khurrana, Samir Soni, and Nauheed Cyrusi.

The makers have described the film as a timeless, deeply moving love story.

The cast and crew recently wrapped up filming for the project in a start-to-finish schedule in Ranikhet, Uttarakhand, where the story is set. 

Stating that he was thrilled to have stalwarts as his leads, Shukla said, "We all say that one should be transparent and clean in any relationship but how many of us are open to facing the truth in our own relationships? The film is a rom-com with a couple in their 70s. You see them doing what any teenager will do in their relationships. The film is a joyride where you laugh, fall in love and cry with this unique couple. I’m thankful to Sameer Nair for supporting me and making this happen."

Shukla was last seen in Milan Luthria's film Tadap (2021) alongside Ahan Shetty and Tara Sutaria. His last film as a director was the Rajat Kapoor-Ranvir Shorey comedy I M 24 (2012).

Sameer Nair, the CEO, Applause Entertainment, said, “Jab Khuli Kitaab has an endearing, exciting idea at its core, which completely sets it apart from other romances.  This film disrupts the usual tropes and reflects how love at any age can turn into a messy and inflammable affair. The script is sharp, observant and hilarious in equal measure, complemented by our wonderful ensemble of actors, led by the remarkable Pankaj Kapur and Dimple Kapadia. We are delighted to be collaborating with Saurabh Shukla and Shoe Strap Films for this truly special film.”

Naren Kumar, producer, Shoe Strap films, stated, “This is a one-of-a-kind film which deals with the love-hate relationship of a husband and wife. It's very quirky, funny and emotional. The real star of the film is its script, and these veteran actors added more magic to it. I think the masses and classes will relate to it. We are really excited to collaborate with Applause Entertainment for our maiden film production under Shoe Strap Films and we feel it is our first step towards making many more movies together.”