The trailer of the Rajkummar Rao-headliner gangster-drama Maalik was released by the makers on Tuesday. Directed by Pulkit (Bhakshak), the film boasts of an ensemble of Saurabh Shukla, Saurabh Sachdeva, Swanand Kirkire, Prosenjit Chatterjee and Manushi Chhillar.

Set in the gritty backdrop of 1980s Allahabad, the film's trailer introduces Rajkummar's character as somebody who comes from a meagre background but who gets into violence to ultimately become a baahubali (muscleman). We see Rajkummar get into an action, massy avatar as he fires AK47s and gets bloodied while killing a person with a spade. Prosenjit plays a cop who has been tasked to bring down Rajkummar's 'Maalik' while Manushi is playing the role of his wife. Saurabh Shukla and Swanand are also seen in the trailer.

Talking about his character, Rajkummar said, “This is the first time I’m doing such a hard-hitting role. It really pushed me as an actor and let me explore a darker, more intense side."

Pulkit, who marks his first theatrical release with the film, added, “The story promises to take audiences on a compelling and emotional ride. We have poured our hearts into its making, and I sincerely hope viewers find it as meaningful and engaging as we intended."

Maalik is produced by Kumar Taurani under the Tips Films banner, along with Jay Shewakramani of Northern Lights Films. It is slated to release in cinemas on July 11.