After completing a diploma in filmmaking at New York University, Zoya Akhtar worked with directors including Mira Nair, Tony Gerber and Dev Benegal before launching her career as a director and screenwriter. Her filmography as director includes Luck by Chance (2009), Zindaqi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), Dil Dhadakne Do (2015), Gully Boy (2019) and the television series Made in Heaven (2019).
Twenty-two-year-old Murad, the son of a driver, is from an impoverished part of Mumbai. His parents worked hard to make sure he would have an education and be able to land a white-collar jobâbut Murad realises it is his calling to be a rapper. Authentic hip hop has recently arrived in Indiaâand, like anywhere else in the world, it rises from the streets. For the poor of India, making art is often nothing but a dreamâMuradâs journey from recognising his love for rap leads him inadvertantly to transcend the class system that has been imposed upon him. Gully Boy showcases street rap from the crevices of Mumbaiâs laneways, highlighting the challenges faced by disenfranchised youth in a minority population.
Director Zoya Akhtar
ProducerFarhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, Hetvi Karia
Cinematographer Jay Oza
Production Designer Suzanne Caplan, Merwanji
Editor Nitin Baid, Rohit Sangwan
Sound Ayush Ahuja
Music Karsh Kale
Production Company Excel Entertainment, Tiger Baby Films
International Sales Excel Entertainment