Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar is all set to start shooting for the fifth installment of the popular Housefull franchise from January 15, 2024. The film, produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by Tarun Mansukhani, is touted to be India’s biggest comedy with a whopping budget of Rs 350 crore.

Housefull 5’s pre production is in progress, the film to be shot in UK

“Housefull is a franchise close to both Akshay and Sajid. They both have cracked a subject that doesn’t just do justice to the world of this mad cap comedy, but also raises the stakes. The core plot is locked and the pre-production is in progress to take the film on floors with the first schedule from January 15,” revealed a source close to the development to Pinkvilla.

Housefull 5 will be extensively shot in the UK, where the makers have planned some grand sets and locations. The film is expected to be a visual spectacle with high-octane action, comedy and romance. The film is slated for a Diwali 2024 release, and is expected to set new records at the box office.

Housefull 5 postponed due to casting issues?

According to media reports, Housefull 5 will feature Akshay Kumar and Riteish Deshmukh reprising their roles from the previous films, along with some new additions to the star cast. The film will also have a crossover element, as it will bring together characters from all the previous Housefull films in a hilarious plot. Housefull is set to become the first comic franchise to have 5 films under its kitty.

“Sajid Nadiadwala was planning to take Housefull 5 on floors by December 2023, however, the plans were pushed to 2024 when the casting was taking longer than expected. Just last week, Sajid and Akshay approached Abhishek and John to sign them for the film,” revealed a source close to the development to Bollywood Hungama.

Both Abhishek and John had to say no based-on date issues. “While they were more than willing to come on board for Housefull 5, they were not able to allot bulk dates for Housefull 5,” the source added.

Housefull is one of the most successful comedy franchises in Indian cinema, having entertained the audiences with four films so far. The franchise has also been a profitable venture for the producer Sajid Nadiadwala, who has collaborated with Akshay Kumar on several other films as well.

Akshay Kumar, who is known for his versatility and work ethic, has a busy schedule ahead of him. He is currently shooting for the comedy film Khel Khel Mein, after completing his cameo in Singham Again. He also has Udaan and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan in his pipeline. The actor was last seen in Mission Raniganj, which was based on a true story of a daring rescue operation and failed to create any box office impact.