By Grace Cyril,News18
Copyright news18
Lord Curzon Ki Haveli, a black comedy thriller that blends suspense with sharp humour, is set to release in theatres across India on October 10. The film marks the directorial debut of actor Anshuman Jha and features Arjun Mathur, Rasika Dugal, Tanmay Dhanania, and Paresh Pahuja in leading roles.
Filmed in the UK, delayed by censorship
Shot entirely in the United Kingdom using a single lens, the project is described as a Hitchcockian chamber drama with an international tone. Combining wit, suspense, and pointed reflections on identity, the film builds around a mysterious evening. Despite its completion, the project faced a delay of more than six months with Indian censors before securing a release date.
Global recognition ahead of Indian release
Produced by Golden Ratio Films and First Ray Films, and presented by MAX Marketing Limited, the film has already been screened internationally. Its premiere at the Melbourne International Film Festival was followed by a run at other global festivals, where it received positive audience responses.
With its unusual title, distinct narrative style, and ensemble cast, Lord Curzon Ki Haveli is positioned as one of the more unconventional theatrical offerings this year.
Director’s tribute to Hitchcock
Reflecting on his debut as a filmmaker, Anshuman Jha said, “When Bikas Mishra and I dreamt up this risque black comedy thriller, we always saw it on the big screen. It’s been shot & designed for the big screen. ‘Lord Curzon Ki Haveli’ is my humble homage to Alfred Hitchcock. Making my directorial debut with this feels just as electric as the day I first stepped into the movies with my acting debut in Love Sex Aur Dhoka.”
Cast shares their excitement
Actress Rasika Dugal expressed her enthusiasm for the theatrical release, saying, “I am thrilled that Lord Curzon ki Haveli is releasing in the theatres. The film had premiered at Melbourne and, subsequently, travelled to other festivals where it was much appreciated by audiences. I enjoyed the film most when I watched it with an audience at a festival in Chicago. And I am so glad that it’s going to be watched like that. The humour (and the darkness that follows) is best experienced with other people. I had the opportunity to witness the response of an international audience. Now I am eagerly waiting to see how it’s received here.”
Her co-star Arjun Mathur added, “As an actor, I’m always excited by stories that surprise me. ‘Lord Curzon Ki Haveli’ is unlike anything I’ve had the opportunity to be part of before. It’s quirky, unpredictable, deliciously dark and funny. I’m thrilled that audiences are going to get to experience this in theatres.”