As AI continues to reshape the filmmaking landscape, a futuristic Indian sci-fi thriller is taking a bolder path, bringing a chilling alien world to life with the expertise of two Hollywood heavyweights who have made their mark in iconic franchises like ‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’ (2025), ‘Venom’, ‘Alien’ and ‘Alien’. Carrying a load in front of the camera is one of the greatest action icons Indian cinema.
Kanishk Varma correct’Samu ‘, Vipul Shah is back as producer
According to Hindustan Times, the project is titled ‘Samuk’ starring Akshay. The film is directed and produced by Kanishk Varma Akshay KumarVipul Amrutlal Shah and Ashin Shah. It also marks the reunion of Akshay and Vipul after 12 years.
Luke Tumber, ‘Mission: Impossible’ investigator coordinator, joins ‘Samuk’
One of the most notable international talents on board “Samuk” is Hollywood stunt coordinator Luke Tumber, ex-Royal Marines Commando, with an impressive list of credits including ‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’, ‘Venom’, ‘No Time To Die’ (2021) and ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ (2019). Sharing his thoughts with Hindustan Times, Tumber says, “This project represents an exciting fusion of international stunt expertise, spectacular cinematography and true action cinema, and I am proud to be a part of bringing this vision to life. Together, we aim to deliver a film that combines powerful storytelling and live-action sequences that will resonate with audiences worldwide.” The veteran coordinator also expressed his admiration for Akshay, saying that he is ‘very popular as an Indian Action Hero’.
Alec Gillis of the Alien franchise to design Samuk’s creature
Beyond the big action set pieces, the filmmakers are pouring significant resources into creature design as well. The film’s alien creation is led by Alec Gillis, an Academy Award-nominated master of creature effects for his contributions to the ‘Alien’ franchise (including Alien: Romulus, 2024), the ‘Predator’ franchise, ‘Smile 2’ (2024) and ‘Tremors’ (1990). Gillis revealed that Samuk’s monster will be a completely original creation, brought to life through practical effects built exclusively for the film.“Together Kanishk and I designed the title character, who is truly a unique alien terror. In the age of CGI and Al, it’s heartening that directors and audiences still appreciate traditional hand-crafted monsters,” he says.
Alec Gillis compares him to Akshay Kumar Jason Statham and Tom Cruise
Talking about working with Akshay, Gillis added, “He has the physicality of Jason Statham and the charisma of Tom Cruise! My goal is to create an alien enemy for Samuk whose energy and screen charisma match that of Mr. Kumar. Defeating this new monster from the classic movie will be no easy task, even for him.”
Akshay Kumar confirms ‘Samuk’: ‘Sci-fi alien thriller is a completely new genre for me’
Akshay himself also puts all speculations to rest. “Yes, I have signed this film. I found Samuk’s script and theme fascinating. Sci-fi alien thriller is a completely new genre for me and also for our films. I am very excited,” he shares.With two experienced Hollywood professionals on board to handle its action and alien design, ‘Samuk’ seems to be one of the few Indian films that takes the grand scale of horror with a global perspective seriously.
