Next goal: Emmy-nent action hero

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Where there is Vir Das, there is always a joke a minute, an auditorium full of laughs. And sometimes, even an Emmy win. But the comic knows only too well that for an artiste to keep thriving, he has to be creatively adventurous. That's why Das, who is on a high after his International Emmy win last year for Landing (2022), is now exploring a new territory. He is set to front a yet-untitled action thriller that will go on floors mid-2024.

Sources say he was approached for the movie late last year. The actor-comic was game to try his hand at the action genre, after having largely featured in comedy or rom-coms. A source reveals, "From Delhi Belly [2011] to Go Goa Gone [2013], people have mostly associated Vir with comedies. But he has tried to break the perception, even trying his hand at a satire like Hasmukh [2020] or being part of Shivaay [2016]. When this high-octane thriller came his way, he was excited about the opportunity to explore a different facet of him."

The project is currently in pre-production. Details like the director and the cast are being kept under wraps, only to be announced officially when the movie rolls. The source adds, "The film will be shot in India and overseas. Vir has begun working with a fitness coach to build a physique in keeping with the character's requirement. His regimen also includes strength training."

Having established himself as a force to reckon with in the comedy world, Das is fired up about his latest endeavour. He says, "I have always believed in challenging myself and exploring new horizons. Comedy will always be my first love, but stepping into the action genre is a new adventure. The prep is intense, and I can't wait to bring something fresh and exhilarating to the audience."