Junayed Alavi, a West India-based indie filmmaker, is on the brink of birthing his debut feature film, Sapiens, a magnum opus grounded in experimental layers of sci-fi and realism. Despite facing challenges stemming from his lower middle-class Bengali Muslim upbringing, Alavi’s journey has been characterized by resilience and determination, leading to an incredibly rewarding outcome.
Having crossed paths with Marvel Studios’ Moon Knight and Werewolf by Night producer Peter Cameron for the genre-defying horror short, Hunger, Alavi has once again teamed up with Hollywood connections to bring his dreams to fruition. His upcoming debut feature, Sapiens, is set to premiere soon, with Cameron serving as the project’s co-producer.
Sapiens boasts another Marvel connection, with Asfandyar Khan, known for his role in Ms. Marvel, serving as the pivotal narrator. The film stars newcomers Kalyan Goswami, Bulbul Ahamed, and Anirbaan Guha in significant roles and was shot in various parts of Birbhum, West Bengal.
Set in a dystopian future, Sapiens revolves around two rival Dalit and Brahmin families navigating a cyborg-colonized Indian village in West Bengal. The film will be available in three languages – Bengali, Hindi, and English, catering to a diverse audience.
Produced under Alavi’s own production banner, Alavi Motion Pictures, Sapiens marks a significant milestone in his career. The script was penned during the lockdown, with major progress made alongside his partner, Firdoushi Begum, who played a crucial role in the production team.
The Sapiens team is aiming for a premiere in theaters, with a tentative schedule set for Christmas 2024 or Summer 2025. While digital release details are yet to be discussed, anticipation for the film continues to build among fans and cinephiles alike.
Reflecting on his collaboration with Alavi, Peter Cameron praised the filmmaker’s commitment to his craft and the themes explored in Sapiens. He commended Alavi’s resourcefulness and dedication, likening his approach to the nostalgic experience of making movies with friends. Cameron’s words underscore the artistic journey shared between two creatives, united by a shared passion for storytelling and filmmaking.
As Sapiens prepares to make its mark on the cinematic landscape, Junayed Alavi’s journey stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity in the face of adversity. With Marvel Studios’ support and a compelling narrative at its core, Sapiens promises to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact on the world of cinema.
