Lionsgate and 87Eleven Entertainment, the companies behind the acclaimed John Wick franchise, have announced plans to develop an English-language remake of the Indian action thriller Kill. Directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat and produced by prominent Indian filmmakers, including Karan Johar, the original Hindi-language film is set for release in India on July 5. Kill, which had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival’s Midnight Madness section and later featured at the Tribeca Film Festival, follows the story of Indian Army commando Amrit (portrayed by Lakshya) who races against time and armed adversaries on a New Delhi-bound train to rescue his beloved Tulika (played by Tanya Maniktala).
Chad Stahelski, Jason Spitz, and Alex Young of 87Eleven Entertainment will helm the remake, drawn by the original film’s intense action sequences and compelling narrative. Stahelski remarked, “Nikhil delivers relentless action sequences that need to be seen by as wide an audience as possible. It’s exciting to be developing an English-language version – we have big shoes to fill.”
The decision to remake Kill in English highlights the increasing international appeal of Indian cinema and its ability to captivate global audiences. The producers expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting the film’s positive reception at international festivals and the anticipation surrounding its release in India. “When we made Kill with Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, we envisioned a story that would resonate globally,” read a joint statement from the producers, quoted by Deadline.
“Seeing the enthusiasm from North American audiences during festival screenings was a testament to the film’s universal themes and thrilling action. Partnering with 87Eleven Entertainment and Lionsgate to produce an English remake is a significant milestone for Indian cinema,” they added.
The original film’s cast, led by Lakshya and supported by Raghav Juyal and Tanya Maniktala, has been praised for their performances, particularly in the film’s high-octane action sequences set against the backdrop of a tense train journey. Besides its action, Kill has been noted for its emotional depth and exploration of themes such as love, duty, and sacrifice. The remake aims to retain the essence of the original while introducing it to a broader English-speaking audience familiar with Lionsgate’s history of action films.
The John Wick franchise, starring Keanu Reeves, has been highly successful, spanning three major films, with the third installment released last year. The next chapter in the John Wick universe is Ballerina, starring Ana de Armas, which follows her character Ruksa Roma, an assassin. Originally slated for release this summer, Ballerina has been delayed to June 6, 2025.
