Mumbai, May 12: American actress Emily Shah is all set to make her debut in Hindi cinema opposite Bollywood actor Abhay Deol in the upcoming film ‘Jungle Cry’, which is slated to release in June.

Chicago-born, New Jersey-raised Emily, who speaks Hindi and Gujarati fluently, says, “‘Jungle Cry’ is a heartfelt story that displays the determination and heart of underprivileged tribal children, who rise to the occasion under extreme circumstances. I play the sports physiotherapist Roshni and I chose the name as she brings light to the film. I had Roshni written in as an effervescent character that uplifts the story and supports the children’s journey and growth with compassion.”

The film will release on Lionsgate Play. It will get a theatrical release overseas May 20. The attractive and graceful actress plays the role of a Rugby physiotherapist in the film, based on true events, that tells the story of 12 underprivileged tribal orphans from Odisha, who play sports barefoot, and yet, go on to win the prestigious Rugby World Cup in England.

Emily’s first international film was ‘Fortune Defies Death’. She has assisted Clint Eastwood on ‘Jersey Boys’ and later went on to assist in other blockbusters such as ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’, ‘Monster Trucks’ and ‘Fast & Furious 7’.

Emily prepared for the role by not only researching Rugby extensively but also shadowing rugby physiotherapist Purvi Desai to better understand what the job entails.

“I was mindful of the first film I chose as a Bollywood actress as it’s one thing to act and another to act in such an impactful story. That’s what drove me to be a part of Jungle Cry. It’s a story that needed to be told and I wanted to be a part of it in every way possible.”

Directed by Sagar Ballary, and featuring Abhay Deol, Atul Kumar, Stewart Wright, and Julian Lewis Jones, ‘Jungle Cry’ also has interesting cameos by renowned Rugby names such as referee Nigel Owens, Wales and British Lions fly half Phil Bennett, and Colin Charvis, former captain of Wales. While she loves the entire team, Emily has glowing praise for Abhay Deol.