Anurag Kashyap’s latest film Bandar (Monkey in a Cage), starring Bobby Deol and Sanya Malhotra, recently premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it generated significant buzz. The film, which trended online with the hashtag #BANDARinTIFF, has caught attention not only for its gripping narrative but also for its striking performances and bold storytelling.
Nikhil Dwivedi on producing Anurag Kashyap’s Bandar: “I don’t see projects as dark or light”
Producer Nikhil Dwivedi, known for backing distinct and unconventional cinema, shared his thoughts on Bandar and how he approaches storytelling as a producer. “I don’t see projects as dark, white, grey, or colourful,” Dwivedi explained. “I view scripts simply as stories. If the narrative reads like an engaging storybook, then that’s something I want to make—because I can already visualise its cinematic potential. Stories can be funny, tragic, full of pathos, or driven by anger. I don’t chase a specific genre.” He added, “I wouldn’t call Bandar a dark film. It’s a drama—an incredibly compelling one. Once audiences see it, they’ll understand that it’s a very well-made film by Anurag Kashyap and everyone involved.”
Bobby Deol’s Career-Defining Performance
The film has already earned praise for Bobby Deol’s powerful performance. Critics at TIFF hailed his transformation as one of the most intense and impressive of his career, showing the actor in a raw and completely new light.
Sanya Malhotra, playing a pivotal role, has also received acclaim for her nuanced and emotionally rich performance. Meanwhile, Saba Azad portrays a fierce, unapologetic character with authenticity, leaving a strong impact. Actress Sapna Pabbi is said to deliver a surprising performance that’s best experienced on screen, with her role being kept under wraps to avoid spoilers.
A Strong Creative Team Behind the Film
Bandar is produced by Nikhil Dwivedi, who continues to support bold storytelling following his previous projects like Veere Di Wedding and CTRL. The film is penned by acclaimed writers Sudip Sharma and Abhishek Banerjee, known for their layered and socially resonant narratives. With a visionary director at the helm, a stellar ensemble cast, and powerful writing, Bandar is poised to make a strong mark both critically and commercially. As it continues its journey on the global film circuit, Bandar is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about Indian dramas of the year.
BOLLYWOOD NEWS – LIVE UPDATES
Catch us for latest Bollywood News, New Bollywood Movies update, Box office collection, New Movies Release , Bollywood News Hindi, Entertainment News, Bollywood Live News Today & Upcoming Movies 2025 and stay updated with latest hindi movies only on Bollywood Hungama.