Shahid, who has been a part of films like "Ishq Vishk", "Vivah", "Jab We Met", "Kaminey", has been lying low at the box office courtesy movies like "Milenge Milenge", "Mausam" and "Teri Meri Kahaani". But Santoshi believes "Phata Poster Nikla Hero" will be his new success.
"Unfortunately, his previous films may not have worked, but he is a wonderful actor and he is very hardworking. He has done a good job in the film. I think this will be Shahid's huge break. He will be successful with this film," Santoshi said here.
The movie also features actress Ileana D'Cruz, who had made her Bollywood debut with "Barfi!".
Talking about the unusual casting, the director said, "Initially we finalised Shahid for the film. I have never worked with him before, but I have really appreciated his work. I thought this is one film which he has not done before...it is full of comedy.
"As far as Ileana is concerned, that time 'Barfi!' had also realeased and I really liked her work in the film. I thought it will be a fresh casting."