'Sholay: The Final Cut' trailer promises better resolution, grand sound
What's the story
The trailer for Sholay: The Final Cut has been released, teasing the worldwide theatrical release on December 12, 2025. This marks the first time audiences will witness the original uncut version of Ramesh Sippy's 1975 epic, restored in 4K with Dolby 5.1 sound. The film employs the tagline "The Greatest Story Never Told," highlighting its status as a landmark in Indian cinema.
Trailer highlights
'Sholay: The Final Cut' trailer showcases iconic characters
The trailer features the legendary duo of Jai and Veeru, played by Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra. It also highlights Sanjeev Kumar's emotional depth as Thakur, Hema Malini's charming Basanti, Jaya Bachchan's silent rebel Radha, and Amjad Khan's unforgettable dacoit Gabbar Singh. The re-release of this iconic film is especially poignant given the recent passing of cast member Dharmendra.
Legacy preserved
'Sholay: The Final Cut' is a tribute to the original
Shehzad Sippy, reviving the Sippy Films banner, said, "This is a milestone that finally presents Sholay exactly as it was intended to be seen." "This version contains the film's original ending as well as the original soundtrack composed by R.D. Burman. I can't wait for audiences to experience it on the big screen for the first time." The restored version is a result of a three-year collaboration between Film Heritage Foundation and Sippy Films.
Film restoration
'Sholay: The Final Cut' features original ending
The world premiere of the restored version took place at Italy's Il Cinema Ritrovato Festival in June. This screening was historic as it was the first public viewing of the film's original ending, where Thakur kills Gabbar Singh instead of having him arrested by the police. This change was enforced by India's Central Board of Film Certification in 1975 during the Emergency period.
Film's influence
'Sholay' is a blend of Western and Indian storytelling
Written by the legendary duo Salim-Javed, Sholay is a unique blend of Western influences from Sergio Leone, Akira Kurosawa, and John Sturges with distinctly Indian storytelling. Despite a lukewarm initial reception, the epic had a long-lasting impact on the Indian box office after its release on August 15, 1975. It ran for five continuous years at Mumbai's Minerva cinema.