Faraz Arif Ansari’s Bun Tikki, starring veteran actresses Zeenat Aman and Shabana Azmi, will have its world premiere at the 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival in 2025, the makers announced on Wednesday.
Bankrolled by Jio Studios and Stage5 Production, Bun Tikki also stars Abhay Deol. The coming-of-age drama delves into the nuanced relationship between a seven-year-old boy, Shanu, and his single father, Sidhant. The film explores themes of identity, parenthood, and resilience.
“From India to Palm Springs 🌟 #BunTikki, a poignant coming-of-age drama exploring the father-son bond, is set for its World Premiere at the 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival! 🎬✨ ,” JioStudios posted on X.
Produced under the creative partnership of Jio Studios and Stage5 Production, the film marks the second international festival feature for the collaboration, following Saali Mohabbat, which premiered at the ongoing International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
Stage5 Production is founded by celebrated fashion designer Manish Malhotra.
The ensemble cast of Bun Tikki also features Nushrratt Bharuccha and child actor Rohaan Singh. The story paints a heartfelt picture of Shanu’s journey of self-discovery while his father struggles with grief and societal expectations.
“Mamma… this one is for you,” Ansari wrote on social media. Bun Tikki marks Ansari’s feature directorial debut. In the past, he had directed three short films: Sheer Qorma (2021), Sisak (2015) and Siberia (2015).