Varma set to re-invent action hero with 'Shiva'

Mumbai, Aug 16 (UNI) Bollywood filmmaker Ramgopal Varma says he wants to re-invent the action film genre which had made the hero a larger than life character.

''Action films are hardly made these days. So it is not correct to say that such films do not work in present times,'' Mr Varma, whose film ''Shiva'' is set for an August 25, release told UNI.

My latest film is not a sequel or remake of my debut film 'Shiva' 15 years ago, he said.

''The previous film dealt with campus violence and how one individual takes on all the evil forces. The new film's plot line is the same. But, it is in contemporary times and my hero is a new recruit in the police force. Here lies the fundamental difference,'' he added.

He said his much publicized remake of 'Sholay' was happening and will go on the floors soon. When asked whether remakes of cult films were required and necessary, he said, ''I cannot speak about other remakes which are being made. But as far as I am concerned, I feel that Sholay can be remade. The entire cast has been finalized except the character of Basanti played by Hema Malini in the original film.'' UNI MR KU AB ND1204