Is Hollywood Borrowing from Bollywood? Gal Gadot's 'The Runner' Sparks Controversy!

The trailer for Gal Gadot's new action thriller, 'The Runner,' has ignited discussions about its striking similarities to Aishwarya Rai's 2015 film 'Jazba.' As fans debate whether this is a case of Hollywood borrowing from Bollywood, the film's premise of a mother racing against time to save her child has drawn mixed reactions online. With a talented cast and intense action sequences, 'The Runner' promises to be a gripping thriller. However, the true nature of its connection to 'Jazba' may only be revealed upon its release. Dive into the details of this unfolding controversy!

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 17, 2026, 18:04 IST

Hollywood's New Thriller Draws Parallels with Bollywood's 'Jazba'

Bollywood has often been criticized for taking inspiration from Hollywood, but recent events hint at a possible shift. The trailer for Gal Gadot's forthcoming action thriller, "The Runner," has ignited conversations among viewers who observe notable resemblances to the 2015 film "Jazba," featuring Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Directed by Kevin Macdonald, "The Runner" is scheduled to debut on September 2, 2026, exclusively on an OTT platform, skipping a traditional cinema release.

In the trailer, Gadot portrays a courageous mother whose son is abducted, forcing her into a dangerous game set by enigmatic criminals. To ensure her child's safety, she must navigate a series of perilous challenges. The trailer showcases thrilling car chases, poignant moments, and high-octane action, setting the stage for an engaging thriller. However, social media quickly drew parallels to "Jazba," where Rai Bachchan plays a lawyer, Anuradha Varma, who must defend a convicted felon to rescue her kidnapped daughter, resulting in a frantic race against time.

Online reactions have varied, with some questioning if "The Runner" is merely a rehash of "Jazba." Comments have ranged from inquiries like "Is it a copy of Aishwarya Bachchan's Jazba?" to light-hearted quips such as "Lol, now Hollywood is copying Bollywood." While certain fans contend that both narratives revolve around a parent's quest to save their child, others argue that the similarities are too significant to overlook.

Alongside Gadot, "The Runner" boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Damian Lewis, Alfred Enoch, Kenton Morgan, and Rory Wilmott. Renowned worldwide for her portrayal of Wonder Woman, Gadot will embody a resolute mother ready to risk everything for her son. As discussions about the potential connections between the two films persist, the true extent of their similarities may only become clear upon the release of "The Runner." In the meantime, the trailer has already emerged as a hot topic across social media platforms.