Nithilan Saminathan’s Maharaja, starring Vijay Sethupathi and Anurag Kashyap, is officially heading to Hollywood. The 2024 Tamil film’s producers confirmed on Wednesday that the movie will be remade in Hollywood by a major studio.
The makers announced the development on social media, describing it as a milestone for the film. The confirmation comes days after reports and social media speculation linked Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey to the remake.
Is Matthew McConaughey starring in Maharaja remake?
While McConaughey’s involvement has not been officially confirmed, producer Sudhan Sundaram recently addressed the speculation.
Speaking to The Times of India, Sundaram said the film’s success in China led an agency to approach the makers for its remake rights. He also revealed that an A-list actor is being considered for the project and that the remake is expected to go on floors next year.
On being asked specifically about McConaughey, Sundaram reportedly said that he could be one of the actors being discussed, but that the agency would have to confirm it.
Therefore, McConaughey’s casting remains unconfirmed at this stage.
What is Maharaja about?
Released in June 2024, Maharaja is a neo-noir thriller directed by Nithilan Saminathan and produced by The Route, Think Studios and Passion Studios.
The film follows a barber who approaches the police after a dustbin named Lakshmi is allegedly stolen from his home. As the investigation progresses, the police discover that his complaint is connected to a much more serious incident.
The film stars Vijay Sethupathi, Anurag Kashyap, Sachana Namidass, Natty Subramaniam and Mamta Mohandas, among others.
Maharaja’s box office success
Maharaja emerged as one of the notable Tamil hits of 2024 and received critical acclaim for its performances and storytelling.
According to trade website Sacnilk, the film earned around Rs 72.43 crore net in India and grossed approximately Rs 199.20 crore worldwide.
The film also found a significant audience in China, where its reported success helped generate interest in acquiring its remake rights.
Hindi remake also in the works
Maharaja’s story has attracted interest beyond Hollywood as well. Aamir Khan has reportedly secured the rights for a Hindi remake of the Tamil film.
With both the Hindi and Hollywood adaptations in development, further details regarding their casts, directors and release schedules are awaited.
Maharaja is currently available to stream on Netflix.
