Language: English
Release Date: May 16 (New York), May 23 (Los Angeles)
Directed By: Karan Kandhari
Genre: Drama, Urban Slice-of-Life
Starring: Radhika Apte
Radhika Apte returns to the spotlight in a completely new avatar in the upcoming indie drama Sister Midnight, and the recently released poster has already stirred excitement among cinema enthusiasts. Dropped by Magnolia Pictures— the official production house of the film— the poster captures the mood, character, and atmosphere of the film in a single haunting frame.
A Poster That Speaks Volumes
The visual shows Apte’s character, Uma, standing alone on a dimly lit Mumbai street, dressed in a muted green-and-blue saree, clutching a mop in one hand. Far from being just a symbolic gesture, the mop becomes a metaphor—perhaps for cleansing the monotony and dirt of mundane life, both literally and metaphorically. The surrounding street is bare, soaked in city light and stillness, allowing Uma to take center stage in a world that feels alive and watching, yet indifferent.
Designed by James Paterson, the poster avoids any flashy gimmicks, relying instead on mood and atmosphere. The color palette leans into urban melancholy, suggesting the layered emotional world Sister Midnight aims to explore.
About the Film
Sister Midnight is written and directed by Karan Kandhari and made its world premiere at the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight, gaining attention for its intimate, character-driven storytelling. Set against the pulsating backdrop of Mumbai, the film follows Uma, played by Apte, a woman grappling with the ennui of her daily life. Through her quiet rebellion against monotony, Uma seeks escape and identity across the landmarks of the city— from the serenity of Marine Drive to the bustle of Bandra’s Bandstand and the chaos of Mumbai locals.
The film is a character study—an exploration of one woman’s quiet desperation and search for meaning in a city that never stops. Apte’s portrayal, as glimpsed through the poster and early reviews, promises depth and raw vulnerability.
A Nod to Cinematic History
While some fans couldn’t help but notice visual echoes of Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver—particularly in the mood, isolation, and framing—Sister Midnight carves its own path. It’s less about vigilante rage and more about internalized discontent and existential stillness. The comparisons end at aesthetic tone; the soul of Sister Midnight remains grounded in its own cultural and emotional terrain.
Theatrical Release and What to Expect
Sister Midnight is slated for theatrical release in New York on May 16 at Angelika Film Center, and in Los Angeles on May 23 across Nuart Theatre and Drafthouse LA. More cities are expected to be announced soon, indicating a wide indie rollout.
With a compelling premise, strong visual storytelling, and Radhika Apte leading the charge, Sister Midnight is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most talked-about indie releases.