Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap is back with Bandar movie (English title: Monkey in a Cage), starring Bobby Deol and Sanya Malhotra in a lead role. From the first look poster, it looks like another boundary-pushing, socially charged drama.
The film is officially selected for the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025, screening in the prestigious Special Presentations section from September 4–14, 2025.
Bandar Movie First Look: Bobby Deol Behind Bars
On July 22, 2025, the makers released the first look poster featuring Bobby Deol in an intense prison-like setup: silhouette behind bars and seated amongst undertrials, an image that instantly raised goosebumps. Bobby captioned it:
“The story that should not have been told… But is the Official Selection at the 50th TIFF 2025. Our film inspired by true events…”
The raw tone and cryptic tagline suggest this won’t be conventional Bollywood fare. It is believed that the story revolves around a man wrongfully accused under section 375.
Bandar Movie Cast & Crew
Bandar is reportedly inspired by real events, with screenwriting credits going to Sudip Sharma (of Paatal Lok, Sonchiriya fame) and Abhishek Banerjee (Paatal Lok, Pari). That combo promises gritty, morally complex storytelling.
Alongside Bobby Deol and Sanya Malhotra, the ensemble includes actors like Saba Azad, Sapna Pabbi, Riddhi Sen, Nagesh Bhosle, Joju George, and Indrajith Sukumaran, hints at layered character arcs and a pan‑Indian cast.
The film is produced by Nikhil Dwivedi (under Saffron Magic Works), along with Shivie & Gaurie Pandit and Kashyap himself. Music comes from Amit Trivedi and Vishal Mishra, indicating the emotional heft will be matched with impactful soundscapes.
Bandar Movie Premiers At TIFF 50
TIFF’s Special Presentations showcases cinema that blends artistry with global appeal. Being part of the festival not only cements Bandar’s international credentials but also signals that Indian indie cinema is increasingly dominating global stages.
For Kashyap, a veteran of Cannes screenings with films like Gangs of Wasseypur, Ugly, Kennedy, it’s another milestone on his trail of globally respected work. However, Anurag Kashyap’s last movie Kennedy hasn’t been officially released in India.
Monkey In A Cage movie plot specifics remain under wraps, though it likely explores themes of entrapment, justice, power imbalance. The runtime of the Bandar movie is rumored around 140 minutes, but not officially confirmed.
And most importantly, the release strategy beyond TIFF (global theatrical or streaming) hasn’t yet been revealed.
Bandar movie feels like an awakening, both for audiences and Indian indie cinema. With Anurag Kashyap at the helm, Bobby Deol taking a gritty turn, and global acknowledgment at TIFF, it should get hyped.
Stay tuned as more details drop: trailers, screening dates, and plot reveals. Till then, let the buzz build. Because a film that was “the story that should not have been told” is about to have its voice heard loudly.
FAQs
While the plot remains secret, Bandar (Monkey in a Cage) is a film inspired by true events, likely exploring social injustice and personal captivity.
Bandar will have its world premiere at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), between September 4–14, 2025, in the Special Presentations section.
Directed by Anurag Kashyap, written by Sudip Sharma and Abhishek Banerjee, starring Bobby Deol, Sanya Malhotra, Saba Azad, Joju George, Indrajith Sukumaran, and others in key roles.
Anurag Kashyap’s Bandar is titled Monkey In A Cage for the international audience.