Renowned filmmaker Ridley Scott produces film 55, a gripping Indian-language drama directed by Shyam P. Madiraju, arriving in theaters on August 29. The story follows a young pickpocket known simply as 55, marked by a tattoo of the number on his arm, which symbolizes his debt to his boss and his life spent stealing from unsuspecting victims across Mumbai. When 55 unexpectedly falls in love with the daughter of one of his targets, his survival instincts and moral duties begin to collide in this intense and heartfelt narrative.
The film stars Emraan Hashmi, known for his role in Once Upon a Time in Mumbai, alongside Rizwan Shaikh from Main Monica. Their performances anchor a story set amidst the vibrant yet harsh realities of Mumbai’s streets, portraying the emotional complexity of a thief caught between loyalty and love.
The Creative Minds Behind the Film
Shyam P. Madiraju not only directed 55 but also wrote the screenplay and joined Ridley Scott as one of the producers. The production team includes Gavin Lurie, Brett Maddock, and Dori Zuckerman, with Paul Feig serving as executive producer alongside Tom Moran, David Taghioff, Najeeb Khuda, Navin Shetty, and Munish Batra. This collaboration brings together seasoned industry veterans and fresh talent to tell a story that is both personal and universal.
Paul Feig expressed his admiration for the film, stating,
“55 is such a masterful film that delivers in so many ways. It’s an emotional crowd-pleaser, a sometimes scary, sometimes funny and always engaging look at the unseen inhabitants of Mumbai. Shyam Madiraju has taken an incredibly talented cast of young newcomers and gotten the performances of a lifetime out of them. I couldn’t love this movie more.”
—Paul Feig, Executive Producer
Ridley Scott also praised the movie’s simplicity and emotional depth, commenting,
“55 is simple, personal and beautiful. The way a good film should be.”
—Ridley Scott, Producer
Visuals and Atmosphere of the Film
The exclusive first-look poster reveals the emotional layers of 55, featuring the protagonist’s face prominently with his love interest’s visage in the background. The skyline of Mumbai rises behind them, contrasting the bustling cityscape with the humble tin roofs where 55 and his friends gather. This imagery evokes a sense of community amid struggle and highlights the dynamic environment in which the story unfolds.
The film delves deeply into the daily lives of Mumbai’s lesser-known residents, illustrating their hopes, fears, and connections. This setting enriches the narrative, grounding its themes of survival and love in a vivid cultural landscape.
What Awaits Audiences in August
Scheduled for release on August 29, 55 promises to offer viewers an emotionally charged experience that blends intense drama with moments of levity and genuine human connection. The film’s portrayal of Mumbai’s hidden corners, combined with powerful performances from a talented young cast, sets it apart as a compelling exploration of life on the margins.
With Ridley Scott and Paul Feig’s involvement, alongside Shyam Madiraju’s passionate storytelling, 55 is positioned to resonate widely, inviting audiences to reflect on the complex interplay between duty, love, and survival within a rapidly changing city.
