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NDTV
a day ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
NDTV Exclusive: Abhishek Banerjee Decodes Stolen Success, Says "It's Almost Like The Film Did Rs 100 Crores In Three Days In Theatres"
New Delhi: There's one belief that has always resonated across the film industry and ardent cinegoers - there are stars, and then there are actors. What perhaps makes the current "star" in the spotlight an "actor" to celebrate is Abhishek Banerjee's stellar performance in the much-talked about survival drama Stolen, currently streaming on Prime Video. The Karan Tejpal directorial has a pretty straightforward plot. But there's a very thin line that defines its genre more aptly as a commercial drama. The story revolves around two brothers Gautam (Abhishek Banerjee) and Raman (Shubham Vardhan), who get embroiled in a kidnapping case after a baby is 'stolen' from a railway station in a fictional state Ranrashtra, a sly reference to Rajasthan. The film then follows the brothers on a harrowing journey with the distraught mother Jhumpa (Mia Maelzer), who initially accuses Raman of stealing her baby. A driven Raman and a reluctant Gautam become a part of this investigation. Abhishek Banerjee as Gautam is not an instantly likeable character. He comes across as a privileged and insensitive person from the upper echelon. He tries to steer clear of any thorny situation. As much as he tries to convince his brother Raman to stay out of it, circumstances just keep getting out of hand. To discover the nitty gritty of acing a taut survival drama such as this, as an unlikeable character, and eventually having a change of heart, Abhishek Banerjee bares it all in an exclusive conversation with NDTV. Does Having Four Powerhouse Filmmakers As Executive Producers Guarantee More Eyeballs? Having acclaimed directors such as Anurag Kashyap, Kiran Rao, Nikkhil Advani and Vikramaditya Motwane bankroll an independent film like Stolen, can be one of the many attributes that may make people take notice of the film. But why didn't they go for a theatrical release? Abhishek Banerjee believes the film getting a direct-to-digital release may have worked for Stolen. He highlights that from a business perspective, it is just a wiser decision that everyone collectively took. "But to have a film like this released in theatres, you need huge marketing support. It is only smart as a businessman to try and achieve the maximum number of audience watching your film. People are talking about the film because it's quicker and easier to watch on OTT. So maybe half the good reviews we are getting are because of the comfort. The response we have got is almost like the film doing 100 crores in three days in theatres. I mean, it is equivalent to a commercial massy film. It is great for the future business of cinema because it's made on a very low budget." The film has travelled to many reputed film festivals such as the Venice Film Festival, BFI London Film Festival, Zurich Film Festival, and Japan's Skip City International D-Cinema Festival. It was also screened at the Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival and the International Film Festival of Kerala. But, is there assurance in the film doing well in theatres at the end of the day? Abhishek Banerjee believes Stolen could have done solid business at the box office. The actor says, "I have always been a believer in doing entertaining ones. I'm not somebody who will give time to a film that I feel as a viewer or as an actor is boring. I'm drawn to thrillers, action thrillers and psychological thrillers. I love it when there is some drama in it and not just human emotion, drama. Like a Namesake or a Lunchbox that are entertaining. I need that entertainment quotient in the film. And Stolen was just that. I truly believe that a film like Stolen can record box office numbers." Empathising With A Seemingly Toxic Character Abhishek Banerjee as Gautam is deeply disturbing on many levels. It is equally easy to get irritated with his demeanour for not being as sensitive as his brother Raman, who wants to help Jhumpa find her daughter Champa. The actor shares, "Something really irritated me while doing it. Also, honestly, when I watch it (the film), I don't like myself. I feel I have not acted well. I'm not enjoying my own performance. And I don't know whether it is to do with my performance or whether it is to do with the character. That is something that has always troubled me." View this post on Instagram A post shared by prime video IN (@primevideoin) This is not the first time the actor has played a despicable character. After playing an amiable fool Jana in the Stree film franchise, Abhishek Banerjee caught everyone's attention as the resolute killer in Hathoda Tyagi from Paatal Lok season one. Then came 2023's Apurva, also a survival thriller which saw him turn into Sukha, his darkest role as an antagonist. Explaining how that experience was vastly different from that in Stolen, the actor says, "With Apurva, it becomes a very different scenario because he's just playing this one-dimensional character. My character Sukha, is just an idiot. Now there is nothing much we can make idiots understand, can we?" Film Poster He elaborates, "I have no idea how to have a conversation with Sukha. Considering how he has no humane characteristics, I don't have any sort of empathy towards a character like that, when I think of it from my own perspective. So I feel nothing for him, I just did it because well, Apurva was a cool and well-made film." Why Abhishek Banerjee Initially Wanted To Play The "Hero" Raman In Stolen In multiple interviews, the actor has said that he initially wanted to play the character of Raman in the film, who was accused of kidnapping Jhumpa's daughter. He eventually ended up playing the character of Gautam, who he befittingly calls the "accidental-hero". The actor says, "I always saw Gautam as a secondary character. The entire chunk of the film is completely based on Raman. He will be deciding the course of the film, and that's exactly what's happening. He's a catalyst." Stolen ( 2025) [ 3.75 / 5 ⭐ ] A tense thrilling film with a powerful performance from Abhishek Banerjee. It shows strong moral questions and realistic portrayals. The movie is less than 2 hours long and tells the story without any dragg ! WORTH !! #Stolen Prime — Karthik (@Karthik79956315) June 8, 2025 Abhishek Banerjee adds, "So of course, for me, it was very difficult to let go of that. I love doing such parts. I love doing parts where I am not seen as a protagonist, but if you remove me from the film, the story will not work. When Gautam came to me, I had to change the way I was thinking and I remained like a supporting character for the longer part in the film. Till probably, he gets into trouble." On Working With A Debutant Director And A New Cast It takes trust and faith to believe in the craft of a debutant director, says Abhishek Banerjee. "The immersive experience that Karan Tejpal wanted to create was what counted. He wanted the audience to be inside the car or the jail or the mob when it was happening. To witness that first-hand perspective was quite impressive. I just gave in after that, and when I saw the first cut I knew that we had something solid in hand. So after that, it was just a gut feeling," he adds. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gaurav Dhingra (@thegauravdhingra) Abhishek Banerjee On How He Tackles The Trend Of Fake News On Social Media In Stolen, the situation gets even more tense when Gautam (Abhishek Banerjee) and Raman's (Shubham Vardhan) fabricated video circulating on social media, adds on to the fake narrative of the abduction. The film begins with a false accusation, which results in a traumatic chase. But what keeps amplyfying the scenario is when the locals completely misinterpret the now viral video. They attack the two brothers, solely on what the video showcases and not by the what the accused had to say, which is often what leads to wrong judgements. For Abhishek Banerjee, tackling an endless loop of fake news on social media comes with the profession. Fake news affects us all, he says. "You have to sometimes really stop yourself from writing stuff. But now what you need to understand is that social media is not your drawing room. The world does not need to know everything. I see it like a rant, where some person is really aware of some current event and wants to talk about it. And then one thing leads to another, and you have everyone putting out information. They want that voice of that cause. I know 99% of them will not go on the streets and do the same thing. So that's why I don't react." As the conversation comes to an end, Abhishek Banerjee jokes about where the characters Raman and Gautam in Stolen would head after they survived in the film. He says, "Hopefully to their mother's wedding, there's going to be a lot of family drama." Giving an update on his upcoming projects, he shared that he has Baaghi Bechare with Pratik Gandhi and Bharat Bala's Mahasangam, set against the backdrop of Mahakumbh. He signs off, with a heart full of gratitude for letting Stolen own everyone's OTT screens.
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First Post
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- First Post
Stolen movie: How Kiran Rao & Vikramaditya Motwane 's film, starring Abhishek Banerjee stole our hearts?
How Prime Video's Stolen has emerged as a cinematic masterpiece and how its OTT release has turned the tables… read more Abhishek Banerjee's film is a victory for India's storytelling. Each and every frame of Stolen is truly gripping and that's what makes this film a must-watch. Usually, films that gain recognition at film festivals are seen as hard-hitting and niche. But Stolen seems to have hit it out of the park. Stolen shows how powerplay is real in our society. There is a constant conflict between two brothers, Raman (Shubham Vardhan) and Gautam (Abhishek Banerjee) who love each other dearly, but they think differently. Stolen will steal your heart to see the plight of a mother in search of her baby Champa. This crime thriller tells the story of two brothers who are entangled in a scary search for a baby that has been kidnapped. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The film is earning praise from all quarters, despite dealing with a powerful and intense subject. Such films are indeed rare, those that not only make waves on the festival circuit but also receive widespread appreciation globally. Stolen follows the story of two urban brothers who witness a baby being kidnapped from an impoverished mother at a rural railway station in India. Driven by a sense of moral duty, one brother convinces the other to help the mother and join a perilous investigation to find the child. Already acclaimed at multiple international film festivals, the film has now been released, and the response has been phenomenal. Stolen 's journey in festivals Looking at its journey through the festival circuit: following its Venice premiere in 2023, Stolen went on a remarkable festival run, collecting accolades across the globe. At the Beijing International Film Festival, it won Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Actress. Japan's Skip City International D-Cinema Festival awarded it Best Film and Best Director, while the Zurich Film Festival honored it with a Special Mention. In India, the film premiered at the Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival and was also screened at the 28th International Film Festival of Kerala. Stolen's OTT release was good for the film Stolen may have been seen as a 'so-called festival film,' but its OTT release has turned the tables, proving that it resonates deeply with audiences too. It's a true cinematic masterpiece that is finally receiving the recognition it deserves. Perhaps not many expected it, but the film is now making waves far and wide globally. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD When all characters are important Jhumpa (Mia Maelzer) is a true screen stealer. Both Gautam (Abhishek Banerjee) and Raman (Shubham Vardhan) has done a fantastic job. WATCH the trailer of Stolen movie here:
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First Post
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- First Post
With global recognition & critical applause, Prime Video's 'Stolen' stands tall as the most awaited digital release of 2025
The trailer pulses with raw emotion and intensity, immersing viewers in a world where justice and vengeance blur - Will Jhumpa find her missing child? read more Some films start making waves long before their release. While many films come and go, only a few truly leave an impact — and investigative thriller Stolen is a perfect blend of both. This upcoming crime thriller has already captured attention with its edge-of-the-seat investigative narrative. The trailer alone has sent chills down the audience's spine, hinting at a powerful and hard-hitting story. What sets Stolen apart is the talented cast, edge of the seat experience and themes that have not been weaved intrinsically the way we find in Stolen ever. If the talks are to be believed, Stolen hits it out of the part for Amazon this year as the most awaited release of 2025. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Though Stolen has already made its mark on the film festival circuit, earning critical acclaim and praise, it is now eagerly awaited by the masses. With its digital release on the horizon, the film is set to make a significant impact. If we look at Stolen's riveting trailer, it opens with a heart-wrenching moment as a baby is snatched from her mother, Jhumpa's arms, played by Mia Maelzer, as she sleeps at a desolate railway station. What follows is a relentless pursuit, as brothers Raman and Gautam, played by Shubham Vardhan and Abhishek Banerjee respectively, join Jhumpa as they navigate treacherous terrain while hunting for the missing child. Deep in India's remote hinterlands, with hostile locals threatening their lives, their search evolves into a desperate fight for survival. The trailer pulses with raw emotion and intensity, immersing viewers in a world where justice and vengeance blur - Will Jhumpa find her missing child? What fate awaits Raman and Gautam? The film, which has been screened at multiple international film festivals, is all set to be available for streaming from June 2025. It made its debut at the Venice Film Festival 2023, where it received a standing ovation. The film went on to win Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Female Actor at the Beijing International Film Festival. At Japan's Skip City International D-Cinema Festival, it was awarded Best Film and Best Director. The Zurich Film Festival also honoured Stolen with a Special Mention, further cementing its reputation on the global stage. In India, the film premiered at the Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival and was later showcased at the 28th International Film Festival of Kerala. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The anticipation for Stolen continues to rise to a fever pitch. The trailer alone has left audiences intrigued, promising a gripping and intense crime thriller. Directed by Karan Tejpal and written by Tejpal along with Dhingra and Swapnil Salkar (Agadbumb), Stolen features a highly talented cast including Abhishek Banerjee, Harish Khanna, Mia Maelzer, Sahidur Rahaman, and Shubham Vardhan in lead roles. Stolen is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and in over 240 countries and territories on June 4.
The Hindu
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Abhishek Banerjee-led crime thriller ‘Stolen' gets premiere date
Abhishek Banerjee-led crime thriller Stolen will premiere on Prime Video on June 4, the makers have announced. Executive produced by Kiran Rao, Nikkhil Advani, Anurag Kashyap and Vikramaditya Motwane, Stolen is directed by Karan Tejpal in his debut feature. Set in the rural hinterland, the film follows two brothers, Gautam (Abhishek Banerjee) and Raman (Subham Vardhan), who witness the kidnapping of a child at a railway station. As they investigate, a case of mistaken identity pulls them into a deadly chase. Stolen also features Mia Maelzer, Harish Khanna and Sahidur Rahaman. The film had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in 2023. It won a special mention at the Zurich Film Festival. Talking about the film, executive producer Kiran Rao said, 'Stolen is a rare film that combines thrilling narrative tension with a deeply humane core. It's that rare kind of cinema that captivates while drawing the audience deeper with every frame. It's heartening to bring this powerful film to Prime Video, I'm truly honoured to support this compelling film.' You can watch the teaser of 'Stolen' here -
Yahoo
10-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Wisdom Of Happiness': Dalai Lama Doc Finds Harmony At Euro Box Office As Rollout Continues
EXCLUSIVE: Since its world premiere at the Zurich Film Festival in October, Swiss documentary Wisdom of Happiness – A Heart-to-Heart with the Dalai Lama has found peace at the box office with strong performances in Switzerland, Germany and elsewhere as overseas rollout continues. Autlook Filmsales reps the movie and is headed to the EFM to expand the reach of the Richard Gere- and Oren Moverman-exec produced film. Negotiations are under way for Latin America and the U.S. The doc, which features the Dalai Lama as he speaks directly to the audience, creating what is billed as 'a meditative cinema experience that resonates long after,' has sold over 70,000 tickets in Switzerland where Ascot Elite released in December. Across the run, it remained in the Top 10 for seven consecutive weeks and was a Top 3 arthouse title. More from Deadline Richard Gere Says America Is In "A Very Dark Place" With "Bully And Thug" Donald Trump As President - Goya Awards 'Ne Zha 2' At $1.1B In China Through Sunday, Already No. 7 Animated Movie Ever WW; 'Mufasa' Nears $700M Global, 'Paddington In Peru' Crosses $100M Overseas - International Box Office 'Ne Zha 2' Crosses $1B At China Box Office; First Movie Ever To Milestone In A Single Market Via X Filmverleih in Germany, Wisdom of Happiness was released on November 7 last year and has sold over 48,000 tickets, positioning it among the Top 5 documentaries of 2024 in the market. In Denmark, Øst For Paradis released the film in mid-January with over 5K admissions to date. Play continues. Directed by Barbara Miller and Philip Delaquis, the documentary sees the Dalai Lama offering insights on humanity's universal quest for inner peace and happiness. The film also highlights his vision for a peaceful and harmonious 21st century, delivering a message of hope and unity during uncertain times. Said Ascot Elite's Ralph Dietrich, 'We are thrilled and proud of the strong box office performance of Wisdom of Happiness. In these challenging times for the industry, it's deeply rewarding to see audiences embrace a film that speaks to our shared humanity and inspires optimism for the future. The film has been steadily playing in theaters for months and will certainly continue to be shown for a long time. Visitors are returning multiple times, which is a very rare phenomenon. Afternoon and early evening screenings, in particular, are extremely well-booked.' Stephanie Fuchs, CEO of world sales at Autlook Filmsales, added, 'This success reflects the universal appeal of Wisdom of Happiness, and we are certain that it will continue to thrive in cinemas and resonate with audiences worldwide.' Gere and Moverman joined the project as executive producers, collaborating across all aspects of the project. Gere, a longtime friend and student of the Dalai Lama, commented, 'Wisdom of Happiness is a very special film that we hope will profoundly influence how we think and feel about ourselves and the others with whom we share this beautiful planet. My friends tell me this is the most important film of my life.' In April, Wisdom of Happiness will screen at the Barcelona Film Festival with Gere in attendance, then release on April 30 via A Contracorriente's Selecta Vision. Further releases include Italy (via Wanted) in May, also with Gere in support. Other overseas markets with deals already in place include Portugal (A Contracorriente), Australia/New Zealand (Madman), Taiwan (Swallow Wings), Greece (Filmtrade), Poland (Aurora), Israel (New Cinema), Baltics (Best Film), Former Yugoslavia (Demiurg), Slovakia & Czech Republic (Garfield Films) and Brazil (Aquarius). Best of Deadline Everything We Know About Christopher Nolan's Next Film – 'The Odyssey': Release Date, Cast And More 2025 Awards Season Calendar: Dates For Oscars, Spirits, Grammys, Tonys, Guilds & More 2024 Hollywood & Media Deaths: Photo Gallery & Obituaries
