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Little English: A Heartfelt Journey into British South Asian Cinema
A new gem on ITVX
In a significant move for British South Asian cinema, ITV is set to stream the independent feature film “Little English” on its ITVX platform. This film, which has already garnered a nomination for best feature film at the U.K.’s National Film Awards, marks the directorial debut of Pravesh Kumar, a renowned theater practitioner.
The plot: A tale of unexpected alliances
“Little English” tells the story of Simmy, a Punjabi newlywed woman who finds herself in a precarious situation when her husband-to-be mysteriously disappears. The narrative takes an intriguing turn as Simmy forms an unlikely alliance with her brother-in-law, Harry, leading to a clandestine romance. This plot not only explores the complexities of familial relationships but also delves into the cultural nuances of the British South Asian community.
For a sneak peek into this captivating story, you can watch the trailer here: Little English Trailer.
A successful cinema run and beyond
The film enjoyed a successful cinema run in 2023, thanks to the support from the BFI Audience Fund and National Lottery funding. Central City Media played a crucial role in assisting producers Resource Productions to reach an underserved diaspora market. Since December 2023, “Little English” has been available on pay-per-view platforms in the U.K. and is slated for release on streaming platforms in the U.S. later this year.
Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month
“Little English” will be available on ITVX during South Asian Heritage Month, which takes place from July 18 to August 17 every year. This timing is particularly significant as it aligns with a broader celebration of South Asian culture and heritage.
Darren Nartey, senior acquisitions manager at ITV, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are proud to include ‘Little English’ in our celebration of South Asian Heritage Month on ITVX, when users can enjoy a wide selection of films and shows that showcase the incredible cultures of this diaspora.”
A labor of love
Pravesh Kumar, reflecting on the journey of making the film, said: “When we made this film at the end of the pandemic, it was a labor of love. I’m thrilled that our quirky family comedy with a big heart will now be accessible to so many people via one of the nation’s biggest broadcasters.”
Producer Dominique Unsworth added: “The fact that a mainstream broadcaster has picked this up is a real ray of light in a challenging market for indies. It demonstrates that there is a very real and hungry global majority audience.”
The cast: Bringing characters to life
The film features a talented cast that brings depth and authenticity to the story. The main cast includes:
- Simmy: Played by Ritu Arya, known for her roles in “The Umbrella Academy” and “Feel Good”.
- Harry: Portrayed by Himesh Patel, who gained fame from “Yesterday” and “Tenet”.
Their performances add a layer of emotional resonance to the film, making it a must-watch for fans of heartfelt dramas.
A reflection on cultural representation
“Little English” is more than just a film; it is a reflection on the importance of cultural representation in media. It highlights the stories of the British South Asian community, offering a narrative that is both unique and universally relatable. The film’s success and its inclusion on a major platform like ITVX underscore the growing recognition and appreciation of diverse voices in cinema.
As we look forward to the film’s release on ITVX, it is a reminder of the power of storytelling in bridging cultural gaps and fostering understanding. “Little English” is set to be a significant addition to the landscape of British cinema, offering a fresh perspective on love, family, and cultural identity.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit: Little English Trailer.
“Little English” leaves us with a sense of anticipation and curiosity about the stories yet to be told in the rich tapestry of British South Asian cinema.
