The first look poster of the much anicipated biopic Shakeela has been released. Just a few days ago, the makers of the film released the logo with a controversial tagline, ‘Not A Porn Star’, clearly emphasising the perspective of the film. Shakeela is based on the life of the South Indian actor of the same name, whose popularity soared after the untimely and tragic demise of Silk Smitha.
Even though she was known primarily for her roles in adult films, her phenomenal success made her several enemies and is said to have caused ripples in the male dominated industry of the time. She was an unlikely superstar whose films were translated into foreign languages like Chinese and Russian in her prime. Her box office success helped cinema halls survive in B and C classes in the South.
Actor Richa Chadha plays the titular lead in the biopic. In the first look poster of Shakeela, covered in authentic gold jewellery, which is a staple element of glamour in Kerala, Richa looks convincing as Shakeela Khan.
On the poster, Richa as Shakeela stands defiant in the face of the insults which are scribbled on the wall behind her. The slurs refer to her skin colour, body and religious faith along with some obscene illustrations which have been scratched out. Looks like the director of the film - Indrajit Lankesh - is cautious and doesn’t want to be accused of ‘whitewashing’ the truth as had happened in the case of a recent blockbuster. Despite all the insults, the actor on the poster meets your eye, looking into the lens with confidence.
Interestingly Shakeela too is playing a part in her biopic. Richa and Shakeela had a rendezvous before the shooting of the film, and seeing their camaraderie, the director roped in the real Shakeela to play a cameo in the film.
The film which has been produced by Magic Cinemas and Yoddhas Entertainment is now all set to release in Summer 2019.