Anurag Kashyap's upcoming film, 'Bandar' (Monkey in a Cage), starring Bobby Deol and Sanya Malhotra, is generating buzz as it prepares for its world premiere at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) from September 4 to 14, 2025. The film, inspired by true events, is already being touted as a potentially controversial and hard-hitting commentary on the Indian justice system and the complexities surrounding #MeToo allegations.

'Bandar' features Bobby Deol as Samar, a fading television star whose life takes a dark turn when he is accused of rape by his ex-girlfriend, Gayatri. The film explores Samar's journey through a corrupt legal system that seems more interested in punishment than justice. Sanya Malhotra plays a key role, though the specifics of her character have been kept under wraps. The cast also includes Saba Azad and Sapna Pabbi.

Kashyap, known for his gritty and realistic filmmaking style in movies like 'Gangs of Wasseypur,' 'Black Friday,' and 'Ugly,' brings his signature approach to 'Bandar'. The film is produced by Nikhil Dwivedi, who also produced 'Veere Di Wedding' and 'CTRL'. The screenplay is written by Sudip Sharma and Abhishek Banerjee.

The selection of 'Bandar' for TIFF's Special Presentations program highlights its significance in contemporary cinema. This program showcases high-profile premieres and films from celebrated auteurs worldwide. The film joins a list of other Indian films that have been screened at TIFF, including Neeraj Ghaywan's 'Homebound' and Ramesh Sippy's classic 'Sholay'.

The first look of Bobby Deol from the film, shared on social media, features an intense and brooding Deol, hinting at the dark and powerful role he plays. Deol captioned the post: "The story that should not have been told… But is the Official Selection at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival 2025. Our film inspired from true events is premiering at #tiff50 #Bandar #MonkeyinaCage".

Kashyap has praised Bobby Deol for his dedication to the role, stating that Deol completely surrendered himself and was "emotionally naked". Kashyap noted Deol's vulnerability and willingness to take on such a challenging role despite also receiving offers for "big mainstream movies". According to Kashyap, the film features a strong ensemble cast, primarily composed of theatre actors and National Award winners.

'Bandar' is expected to spark debate, particularly in light of the #MeToo movement, by portraying the potential misuse of laws and the flaws within the legal system. Kashyap has stated that the film does not aim to declare anyone innocent or guilty but rather to shed light on the "cracks in the system, the silences in the courtroom, and the people who disappear inside them". The filmmakers visited jails across India during their research and were profoundly impacted by the realities they witnessed. One particular case that haunted Kashyap was that of a man who was released after 32 years, having been declared innocent, but whose case was never even heard.

'Bandar' promises to be a thought-provoking film that will explore the complexities of justice, identity, and survival within a flawed system. The world premiere at TIFF 2025 is highly anticipated.