This Tempting Madness’ to Premiere at IFFI 2025: A Gripping Psychological Thriller Inspired by a True Story
Mumbai, Nov 19 (TheTrendingPeople) — This Tempting Madness, an American psychological thriller based on an astonishing real-life incident, is set to make its world premiere at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025. The much-anticipated film will receive a Gala Screening on November 27 in Goa, positioning it among the festival’s most prominent global titles.
Announcement: A Major IFFI Premiere
Directed by Jennifer E. Montgomery, the film has emerged as a key highlight of IFFI’s 2025 lineup. The cast features an exceptional ensemble:
- Simone Ashley (Bridgerton, The Devil Wears Prada 2)
- Austin Stowell (NCIS: Origins)
- Suraj Sharma (Life of Pi, Gulmohar)
- Zenobia Shroff (The Marvels)
Early festival chatter suggests the film is one of the most anticipated premieres due to its intense narrative, global appeal, and emotionally charged performances.
Background: A Story Rooted in Trauma and Memory
This Tempting Madness follows Mia (Simone Ashley), who awakens from a coma after a near-fatal fall—only to find:
- Her memory fractured
- Her husband missing
- Her fears and suspicions growing stronger
- Her family acting protective, cautious, and strangely guarded
The plot explores how trauma disrupts the fabric of memory and self-trust.
Director Jennifer E. Montgomery, making her feature debut, revealed that the story draws from a devastating real incident involving a close friend.
“Her unimaginable ordeal was impossible to shake. The film grew directly out of that experience,” Montgomery shared.
“It speaks to the fragility of memory and the terror of losing trust in yourself.”
Industry Buzz: A Powerful Performance from Simone Ashley
Early viewers at private festival previews are praising Simone Ashley for delivering:
- Her most complex performance so far
- A deeply layered portrayal of a woman torn between fear and fragmented truth
- A nuanced emotional arc rarely seen in mainstream psychological thrillers
With its chilling tension and intimate character work, critics expect the film to resonate across global festivals.
Actor Suraj Sharma, who also stars in the film, expressed his excitement about returning to IFFI:
“IFFI has a remarkable energy. The last time I was here was for Life of Pi, and it was unforgettable. I’m eager to see how audiences respond to this film.”
What’s Next: Festival Run and Global Release Buzz
Following its world premiere in Goa, This Tempting Madness is expected to:
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Travel to several international film festivals
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Draw attention from global distributors
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Feature prominently in awards-season conversations for indie thrillers
Produced by Smoke Jumper Films, the movie’s visual tone, psychological depth, and true-story origins give it a unique position in the global festival circuit.
With its haunting true-story origins, stellar cast, and festival-ready intensity, This Tempting Madness is poised to make a powerful mark at IFFI 2025. All eyes now turn to its Gala World Premiere as audiences await one of the year’s most emotionally charged thrillers.