The film features Shahid Kapoor and Ileana D'Cruz in the lead roles, and was released on 20 September 2013 to a mixed to positive response from critics.

In early August 2012, it was confirmed by director Rajkumar Santoshi that he had been offered the film along with actor Arpit Sharma and that he had been in talks for the previous six months.

[citation needed] It was also reported at the time that actress Diana Penty had been signed on as the female lead, though Ileana D'Cruz later replaced her.

It was later revealed that newcomer Deepika Kamainah will play an important role alongside Shahid Kapoor and Ileana D'Cruz.

"Hey Mr DJ" is a club song sung by Benny Dayal, Shefali Alvares and Shalmali Kholgade.

Taran Adarsh gave the film 3.5/5 and wrote, "Phata Poster Nikhla Hero brings back memories of old-fashioned comic entertainers.

You laugh, celebrate the silly gags and by the time the story reaches its conclusion, you realize that the film has won you over with its unfussy plot and basic characters, who don't have a serious bone in their body.

If you relished Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani from the team of Taurani and Santoshi, chances are you will also lap up this vibrant, kaleidoscopic, light-hearted entertainer.

"[6] Madureeta Mukherjee of The Times of India gave the film 3.5 and felt, "The first half offers loads of cackles, chuckles, witticisms and spoofy scenes.

Post-interval the comedy collapses for a bit with forced OTT drama, khaali-peeli action, and too many song breaks, but makes a comeback with delightfully funny moments.

Movies awarded the film 3 stars and summarised, "Phata Poster Nikhla Hero will entertain if you are willing to overlook its little indulgences.