The sound of Malaysian cinema is about to get louder with the arrival of Banduan, a gripping action thriller directed by Kroll Azry and starring Aaron Aziz. Set to hit cinemas nationwide on 6 November 2025, the film has already attracted international attention, with distributors from the UK, US, and Canada expressing interest even before its local debut. This marks a significant milestone for Malaysian storytelling on the global stage.
Featuring a powerhouse cast including Rosyam Nor, Afdlin Shauki, Fadhli Masoot, and Adlin Aman Ramlie, Banduan blends raw emotion with high-intensity, precisely choreographed action. Produced by Number Twenty One Media and Dream Warrior Pictures, it represents a bold step forward in local filmmaking, balancing craft, ambition, and heart.
Adapted from the 2019 Tamil blockbuster Kaithi, the film reinterprets its core themes of duty, redemption, and circumstance through a uniquely Malaysian perspective. “We reimagined the story to reflect our social and cultural realities,” said the filmmakers. Set over one intense night, the story follows Dali, a former prisoner determined to reunite with his daughter, and Inspector Johari, a police officer racing to save his poisoned team. Together, they must face Rejab, a ruthless gang leader played by Abi Madyan, in a night of chaos where law, loyalty, and survival intertwine.
Balancing homage and originality was one of the project’s biggest creative challenges. The filmmakers infused the narrative with local nuances, exploring the moral complexities of Malaysian society while maintaining the film’s emotional depth. From the language to the humour and sense of redemption, Banduan feels authentically Malaysian yet universally relatable.
Aaron Aziz took his role as Dali to new heights, undergoing tactical training and even learning to drive a lorry for the first time in his career. Director Kroll Azry described Aaron’s performance as one of quiet strength and deep humanity, capturing the soul of a man seeking redemption against impossible odds.
Beyond its story, Banduan sets the foundation for Malaysia’s first-ever cinematic universe. Inspired by the narrative richness of Kaithi, the film was written with the potential for sequels and spin-offs if audiences connect with its world. “We’ve built a universe that could expand, but our focus now is to ensure Banduan stands alone as a complete, emotionally powerful film,” said the producers.
Distributed by Astro Shaw, Banduan will premiere simultaneously in Malaysia and Brunei on 6 November, followed by Singapore on 13 November. It will also make its international debut at the International Film Festival of Australia.
Producer and Executive Producer Kalyana Devan shared his excitement about the unexpected global response. “Distributors from the UK, US, and Canada were intrigued by how we reimagined a Tamil classic for Malaysian audiences. This is a milestone — the first Malay-language action thriller to gain international distribution interest. It’s an inspiring moment for all of us in Malaysian cinema.”
With its intense action sequences and emotional storytelling, Banduan aims to prove that Malaysian films can be local in voice yet global in vision.
Banduan opens in cinemas nationwide on 6 November 2025.
