Hyena 2: The Monkey BusinessThe upcoming sequel, directed by actor-filmmaker Anshuman Jha, is set for a special market screening at the Marché du Film during the Cannes Film Festival. The screening is taking place ahead of the film’s official world premiere later this year and is expected to help the producers explore international distribution opportunities.
Hyena 2: The Monkey Business is set to screen at the Marché du Film at the Cannes Film Festival
The project is being backed by German production company Webfilmland Productions, which has also come on board as partner for German distribution. According to the producers, the film is one of the few Asian action titles to be screened at the Cannes market this year.
Set in Indonesia, the film is presented for the first time worldwide hyena The film extends its focus beyond animal welfare to broader environmental concerns. The sequel covers themes related to wildlife conservation, particularly the declining population of the critically endangered Yaqui monkey species.
The film also marks a milestone as the first official India-Indonesia co-production. Its cast includes Sunny Pang, known for films such as Headshot and Havoc, along with Thai martial artist and actor Dan Chupong, known for his work in Ong-Bak. The group also stars Adil Hussain, Sarah-Jane Dias and Anshuman Jha.
Talking about the film’s Cannes presence, Anshuman Jha said, “hyena was rooted in my love for dogs; Hyena 2: The Monkey Business Expands that lens to all animals. Animals are becoming extinct because humanity is becoming extinct. We wanted to elevate the action – not just in intensity, but also in meaning. Because beyond the fights the question is what do you stand for. The Marché du Film gives us the platform to bring this story to a global audience that values cinema that connects both the heart and the mind. ”
Jennifer Pengel of Webfilmland Productions shared, “We first discovered hyena at the Stuttgart Film Festival in 2023, where it won the Vision Award, and we’ve been keeping an eye on the franchise ever since. There are no animal-loving vigilantes on the global scene – and India has not produced any international martial arts stars in the field. This film provides both. Anshuman Jha brings a rare quality – his performance has the intention, authenticity and raw presence of Bruce Lee. What really makes this movie different is that its action isn’t just for show – it has a purpose. It gives voice to the voiceless. This feels like a step forward for Asian martial arts cinema. It is not just action—it is action with the Spirit. And we believe it will resonate strongly with both action audiences and animal lovers across Europe.
Backed by First Ray Films, the project combines martial arts action with socially relevant themes. With its international collaborations and the upcoming Cannes Showcase, Hyena 2: The Monkey Business Establishing itself as a distinctive entry in the emerging landscape of Indian action cinema.
