Aamir Khan's cousin Mansoor Khan says Junaid Khan would've been a better choice in 'Laal Singh Chaddha'; Criticises Kareena Kapoor's casting

Bollywood director Mansoor Khan, known for his hit films like 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak' and 'Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar', has offered a strong opinion about his cousin Aamir Khan’s 2022 film 'Laal Singh Chaddha'.

The director, who played a significant role in Aamir’s early success, believes that his son, Junaid Khan, would have been a better fit for the lead role.
Mansoor told Aamir ‘you’ve overdone the mannerisms’
In an interview with Screen, Mansoor didn’t hold back when talking about Aamir’s performance in the film. He explained, “I’d say he pitched the elder performance totally wrong (laughs). Usne younger bola? Matlab ab tak nahi samjha (Did he say younger? Means he hasn’t gotten it yet). ArreI saw the first trial and I told Aamir, 'What are you doing!' Aamir has this format that he’ll call close people for a screening and then will ask what we think. Unfortunately, he always picks me first. I said, ‘You’ve overdone the mannerisms. You don’t need it. Unfortunately, it’s close to his mannerisms in PK.’ Aamir has recognised that."
Junaid Khan would’ve been better
Mansoor didn’t just criticise 'Laal Singh Chaddha', but also suggested that Junaid, Aamir’s son, would have been perfect for the role. He had seen the Bollywood newbie's screen test and was immediately impressed by his performance. "I thought Junaid did a brilliant job," Mansoor said and added that despite being only 28, the actor exhibited a certain innocence that would have connected better with audiences. Mansoor revealed that he had recommended Junaid for the role, but his suggestion was met with surprise from the producers and the director.

Criticism on casting Kareena Kapoor
Along with his critique of Aamir’s performance, Mansoor also voiced his disagreement with the casting of Kareena Kapoor as the female lead. He expressed his frustration with the Bollywood industry’s reliance on marketability and box-office appeal in casting decisions. “I’d not take Kareena (Kapoor) then. What is this fear of market mein opening nahi lagegi? Kya bakwas hai (no opening in market? What rubbish!)," Mansoor added.

About 'Laal Singh Chaddha'
'Laal Singh Chaddha', a remake of the Hollywood classic 'Forrest Gump', failed to make an impact at the box office despite Aamir’s star power. The actor himself admitted that he wasn’t able to portray the younger version of his character convincingly.


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