Paper Flowers
Synopsis
Based on a true story, USC graduate Shalin Shah leaves behind the expectations of his Indian-American family and his girlfriend Fiona to serve as a Peace Corps volunteer in Peru. But when a persistent cough leads to a devastating diagnosis of synovial sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer, Shalin is forced to return home and confront a future he never anticipated. Surrounded by his family, Fiona, and his closest friends, he begins to reconsider what it means to live with purpose when time can no longer be taken for granted. As Shalin’s perspective deepens, his reflections on gratitude, love, and mortality inspire the essay “Thank You, Cancer,” which is published by HuffPost and goes viral with readers around the world. A devastatingly beautiful story of family, resilience, and the lasting impact of one life, Paper Flowers is a reminder to cherish the people we love and the moments that give life meaning. #SunsetsForShalin
Trailers, Teasers & Extra Featurettes
Official promotional previews, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive clips.
PAPER FLOWERS (2026) Official Trailer
Type: Trailer • Published 2026-07-02
Top Cast
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Release History & Theatrical Window
Dances With Films Festival
Festival / Special Debut
August 21, 2026
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Mahesh Pailoor
- Screenplay & Story
- Mary Krell-Oshi, Asit Vyas
- Original Title
- Paper Flowers
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1h 40m
- Production Studios
- AV Entertainments, Paper Flowers Movie, LLC
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Mahesh Pailoor
Mary Krell-Oshi, Asit Vyas
Cary Lin
Asit Vyas
Department Leadership Roster
Taj Ambar
Costume Design
Mahesh Pailoor
Director
Asit Vyas
Producer
Cary Lin
Editor
Amanda Massi
Costume Design
Mary Krell-Oshi
Writer
Carlee Wyman
Production Design
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Paper Flowers.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Paper Flowers
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Paper Flowers about?
Based on a true story, USC graduate Shalin Shah leaves behind the expectations of his Indian-American family and his girlfriend Fiona to serve as a Peace Corps volunteer in Peru. But when a persistent cough leads to a devastating diagnosis of synovial sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer, Shalin is forced to return home and confront a future he never anticipated. Surrounded by his family, Fiona, and his closest friends, he begins to reconsider what it means to live with purpose when time can no longer be taken for granted. As Shalin’s perspective deepens, his reflections on gratitude, love, and mortality inspire the essay “Thank You, Cancer,” which is published by HuffPost and goes viral with readers around the world. A devastatingly beautiful story of family, resilience, and the lasting impact of one life, Paper Flowers is a reminder to cherish the people we love and the moments that give life meaning. #SunsetsForShalin
Who directed Paper Flowers?
Paper Flowers was directed by Mahesh Pailoor.
Who stars in Paper Flowers?
The principal cast of Paper Flowers includes Kapil Talwalkar, Olivia Liang, Karan Soni, Tom Everett Scott, Faran Tahir.
When was Paper Flowers released and how long is it?
Paper Flowers was released in 2026 with a total runtime of 1h 40m.