EXCLUSIVE: Animated feature Return of the Jungle will launch in theaters across India on May 29. Here’s a teaser trailer revealing the news.
The music-drivem family pic, which comes from Vaibhav Studios, the Emmy-nominated Indian animation studio, was showcased at the Cannes Film Market two years before its debut on Indian theatres.
Set in contemporary India, Return of the Jungle is billed “a modern-day Panchatantra-inspired story with strong Indian roots” following a group of fourth graders who discover their confidence through the enchanting jungle stories shared by a grandfather.
The teaser showcases a mix of animals and cricket-playing kids who dream of being superheroes.
Vaibhav Kumaresh, who created JioStar mascat Simpoo and Warner Bros. Discovery series Lamput, is the director.
“Return of the Jungle is Indian Animation like you’ve never seen before. It’s a beautiful fusion of contemporary India with our rich folktales,” said Kumaresh. “Endearing characters, performances, hugely nostalgic scenarios, music featuring bhajan, calypso and qawwaali, quirky humour, a nail biting game of cricket and a simplicity that touches your soul – ROTJ offers an emotional rollercoaster experience never seen before on Indian screens.”
“ROTJ is for the child in each one of us,” he added. “It’s a wholesome family entertainer – clean, positive and highly inspiring. Every age group will closely connect with the film as they’ll see themselves in it.”
