By Nesamalar Kathirvellu
KUALA LUMPUR, 12 September 2025: Malaysia’s cinema is set to release its first official Kollywood remake, Banduan, in theaters on November 6. The film is a local adaptation of the acclaimed 2019 Tamil blockbuster Kaithi, which was originally directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and starred actor Karthi.
Produced by Number Twenty One Media in partnership with Dream Warrior Pictures Sdn Bhd, the project marks a significant step in the growing cultural exchange between the Malaysian and Indian film industries. Director Kroll Azry leads a cast of prominent local actors, including Aaron Aziz, Rosyam Nor, Afdlin Shauki, Joshua Michael and many more.
The producers stated that while Banduan retains the original’s raw action and themes of redemption, it has been reshaped for Malaysian audiences through the use of local culture, language, and settings. Astro Shaw will be the film’s official distributor.
The kollywood blockbuster Kaithi, follows Dilli, an ex-convict who is set to meet his daughter for the first time after his release from prison. However, his plans are disrupted when he is entangled in a high-stakes drug raid led by Inspector Bejoy. The story unfolds on a single night where Dilli is forced to join forces with the authorities, leading to a thrilling battle of survival, sacrifice, and redemption. The movie is expected to raise the bar for Malaysian action cinema.
