Fresh off its double win at the British Independent Film Awards (BIFAs), Santosh, the UK’s official Oscar entry for Best International Feature Film, has secured a much-anticipated distribution deal in India. According to Deadline exclusive, PVR INOX Pictures will bring the Hindi-language film to Indian audiences. It is the film-releasing division of India’s largest cinema chain, PVR INOX Ltd.
The deal was brokered by MK2, which is handling the film’s global sales. Written and directed by Sandhya Suri, Santosh features performances by Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar. The production is a collaboration between Good Chaos, Suitable Pictures (India), Haut Et Court (France), and Razor Film (Germany).
The gripping narrative follows Santosh, a young widow thrust into a new life as a police officer in rural India after inheriting her late husband’s job. Under the mentorship of Sharma, a seasoned and charismatic inspector, Santosh dives into the investigation of a low-caste girl’s murder, uncovering a web of crime and corruption. As she navigates the challenges of her role, Santosh is forced to confront the systemic failures around her and her own position within this fractured world.
Kamal Gianchandani, CEO of PVR INOX Pictures, expressed enthusiasm for the film’s Indian release. He said, “We are thrilled to be bringing Santosh to our Indian audiences. This film is not only a beautiful reflection of universal themes of hope and self-discovery, but the emotional depth, exceptional performances, striking visuals, and a unique narrative approach make it a truly special cinematic experience. We believe it will strike a chord with viewers across the country. We’re excited to partner with the filmmakers to ensure that this extraordinary story reaches as many hearts as possible.”
Having premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes earlier this year, Santosh has been a hit on the international festival circuit. Its accolades include Best Screenplay and Best Breakthrough Producer at the BIFAs. The film has also featured at notable events such as the Toronto Film Festival, Telluride Film Festival, BFI London Film Festival, and MAMI Mumbai Film Festival.
The film’s producers include Mike Goodridge, James Bowsher, Balthazar de Ganay, and Alan McAlex, with executive producers Ama Ampadu, Eva Yates, Diarmid Scrimshaw, Lucia Haslauer, and Martin Gerhard.
Santosh has already seen success in France, where Haut Et Court Distribution released the film, achieving over 150,000 admissions. The film is set to debut in the U.S. through Metrograph on 27 December, with a UK release scheduled for 21 March, 2025, under Vertigo and Civic Studios.
This latest acquisition underscores PVR INOX Pictures’ position as a leading distributor of independent foreign-language and Indian films. Upcoming releases from the company include Ballerina (a John Wick spinoff), Nicole Kidman’s Babygirl, and horror sensation Heretic.
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