“Drishyam,” the acclaimed Indian thriller that follows an ordinary man’s intricate web of deception to shield his family from authorities, is poised for an English-language adaptation. The endeavor sees collaboration between India’s Panorama Studios and U.S.-based production companies Gulfstream Pictures and JOAT Films.
Originally crafted in the Malayalam language in 2013, “Drishyam” subsequently underwent a Hindi rendition in 2015 featuring Ajay Devgn and Tabu in pivotal roles. The film’s success spawned a Hindi sequel, “Drishyam 2,” in 2022, grossing approximately $43 million globally.
Panorama Studios, which helmed the Hindi version in association with Viacom18 Motion Pictures, has secured international remake rights for both “Drishyam” installments from the original producers, Aashirvad Cinemas. Multiple international adaptations are in the works, including a Korean remake in collaboration with Anthology Studios, with plans for a Spanish language version nearing finalization. Notably, the Chinese rendition titled “Sheep Without a Shepherd,” released in 2019 and achieved a staggering $200 million in box office earnings, albeit without Panorama’s involvement.
Kumar Mangat Pathak, chairman and MD of Panorama Studios, expressed enthusiasm for the project’s global reach, envisioning productions spanning 10 countries within the next three to five years, following the footsteps of the Korean and Hollywood adaptations.
Gulfstream Pictures, co-founded by Mike Karz and Bill Bindley, renowned for projects like the romantic comedy “Blended” and workplace comedy “Upgraded,” eagerly anticipates bringing “Drishyam” to American audiences.
In a joint statement, Gulfstream’s Karz and Bindley lauded the film’s timeless appeal and its ability to captivate audiences worldwide, expressing anticipation for its reception in the U.S.
JOAT Films, spearheaded by former Warner Bros. executive Jack Nguyen, specializes in cross-territorial local language remakes. Nguyen affirmed the enduring allure of “Drishyam,” citing its compelling narrative and promising a gripping adaptation that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
