Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Allelujah for a bright new British talent

Rising star Bally Gill on his meaningful new film

Allelujah for a bright new British talent

WITH their heroic work done during the Covid-19 pandemic and underfunding that has led to strikes, the National Health Service (NHS) has been at the forefront of people’s minds.

More people than ever before have been appreciative of the amazing work done by the NHS and that is why heart-warming new film Allelujah has come along at the right time. The big screen adaptation of Alan Bennett’s acclaimed theatre play revolves around elderly patients rising up to prevent the closure of a geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital, with the help of an Indian doctor played by Bally Gill.


The British Asian actor joins an outstanding cast that includes screen legends like Judi Dench, Jennifer Saunders, and Derek Jacobi in a movie that celebrates the elderly, spirit of humanity and medical staff working on limited resources. The beautifully made film, with cross-generational appeal, adds to an impressive body of growing work for the versatile performer, which has included a stunning stage turn in Romeo And Juliet and roles in high profile drama serials.

This looks like being a huge turning point for the actor, who was in Vancouver shooting for a forthcoming project when Eastern Eye caught up with him. He spoke about his increasingly exciting journey, new film Allelujah, its key message, starring alongside legends, inspirations, and interesting dream role.

What first connected you to acting? 

Honestly, I wasn’t particularly good at anything else. But genuinely, I was born in Coventry, in an area called Foleshill, and my options were fairly limited, and acting was definitely something I was better than average at. Not many people from my area, or from my cultural background, go into acting, so it raised a lot of eyebrows when I decided to pursue it.

How did your family react?

My dad was the first person I told about my ambitions to become an actor, and he actually helped me get into the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry as part of one of their acting groups. While there I had an acting teacher called Tracey Street, who really believed in me and set my passion alight, and she is so much of the reason I kept going and still keep going.

Tell us about Allelujah and the character you play? 

I play a character called Dr Valentine, who is a lovely, idealistic doctor from India, dedicating his efforts to saving a northern hospital called The Beth. In particular the geriatric ward, from governmental closure, by inviting a local film crew to document the good work they do for their patients. He is unfailingly kind, loves elderly people, and represents an outsider’s perspective on the culture of caring for our elderly.

Lead inset Bally Gill Richard Eyre Director Alan Bennett Writer Judi Dench Bally Gill with (from left) Richard Eyre, the director of Allelujah, the writer Alan Bennett, and co-star Judi Dench

What was the biggest challenge of playing this role?

To get the voices of these characters right. There’s a huge responsibility of representing voices that are so under-represented in society, yet we hear so much about them and their industry in our news and media. But all credit to Alan Bennett and Heidi Thomas, who gave these characters real, authentic voices, and made my job a whole lot easier.

Did you feel nervous or intimidated acting alongside legends like Judi Dench and Jennifer Saunders? 

Before meeting them, absolutely. I think any actor would echo that, especially when as an actor you’re leading your first feature film and having to lead this kind of project. So, acting alongside acting royalty like this cast was a hugely daunting prospect. But as soon as I met them that disappeared; every single one of them was even lovelier than you can imagine and meeting them makes you realise that they really are just normal, lovely humans. They still blow you away every time you see them in action though.

Can you share any memorable moments from shooting the movie? 

My last day shooting with Jennifer Saunders; we filmed a scene where there was a disagreement between the two characters, and I remember watching her and being completely blown away by her performance, from the first take to the last. She truly delivers a breath-taking performance, and I genuinely sat there in awe for every second of that last scene.

Who are you hoping connects with this film? 

Everyone! I would say we’re representing all healthcare workers, and their struggle and fight. But at the same time, it’s likely going to resonate with those whose elderly loved ones are currently struggling, in care, or in the healthcare system. It’s probably a little idealistic of me, but I’m also hoping that those in power will see this film and its message of love for the NHS - those who put their lives on hold, to help our most vulnerable, and will do something about the underfunding and understaffing of our most vital services.

What is your own favourite moment in the movie? 

There’s a really beautiful scene I vividly remember filming, which was a two-hander between myself and Judi, where Valentine and Mary are discussing Mary’s favourite thing about her old job. It just felt spectacularly easy. It was a scene that really highlighted a connection between these two lonely characters, who were finally able to be vulnerable and show one another a side of themselves no one else had been able to see.

Lead inset Bally Gill Leads Alan Bennetts Movie Allelujah 521 In a scene from the film with Judi Dench

Tell us more about that moment with Judi Dench?

It is such a credit to Judi as a person, not just as an actor, for being able to be that open and to make a young actor feel completely at home. I remember calling my partner when I got home from filming that day and saying me and Judi are eloping. But seriously, she is amazing.

Is there a key message this film aims to convey? 

I’d say it’s a message conveying a cry for help; while the film is for the most part, a love letter to our NHS. It shows difficulties faced by many hospitals and members of staff across our NHS services nationwide. It touches on such an important subject matter, and one which is so relevant in the current landscape, when the NHS is so on its knees and staff are having to fight for basic needs to be met.  

You have a growing body of work. Which of your other roles have been close to your heart? 

I’ve got to say Romeo for this one! It really was a career-changing role for me. I’ve always wanted to perform Shakespeare, and to play that role in particular and being given the freedom to make the role my own and make it feel completely natural really meant the world to me. Being able to perform it at the Royal Shakespeare Company of all places just added that extra level. I also have Romeo to thank for so many of the roles I’ve auditioned for and landed since, including Allelujah. So, I’m really not exaggerating when I say that Romeo changed my life.

Lead BALLY GILL S04 143 copy Bally Gill

What inspires you as an actor? 

My answer to this changes depending on my mood, and projects, but today it’s stories we tell written by people using their own authentic voice. Art is becoming increasingly truthful, experimental, and accessible, but continues to challenge the same old stories that we’ve been allowed to tell for so many years. Hearing new voices and being part of those projects, which buck the norm in such authentic ways is so inspiring. I’d love to continue to lift those voices in roles I take in the future.

Do you have a dream role? 

I mean, Judi did tip me for a role as the next Bond, so I’m waiting on a call any minute now.

Why should we watch Allelujah

Aside from stating the obvious and listing the exceptional cast and creatives associated with this project, I’ll just say that Allelujah is a genuinely funny, heart-warming, moving story about love, humanity, and the lengths we go to, to protect the things which matter to us.

Allelujah is in cinemas now

More For You

Brasil! Brasil! at the Royal Academy: A journey through Brazilian modernism

Banana Plantation (1927) by Lasar Segall

Brasil! Brasil! at the Royal Academy: A journey through Brazilian modernism

THE Royal Academy has a wonderful, new exhibition called Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism featuring more than 130 works by 10 Brazilian artists from the 1910s to the 1970s.

As with all great art, it gives you a real feel for Brazil.

Keep ReadingShow less
LGBTQ+ representation in global media: How queer stories are evolving

A celebration of queer stories worldwide – diverse, powerful, and unapologetically authentic

LGBTQ+ representation in global media: How queer stories are evolving

Media has transformed from just a form of entertainment into a dynamic platform for representation, validation, and social change. For young queer individuals, seeing their identities reflected authentically on screen can be nothing short of transformative. Positive, nuanced portrayals of queer lives not only encourage self-acceptance but also challenge outdated societal norms, making space for the beautiful diversity of human experiences.

Over the last few years, queer representation in global media has undergone a remarkable evolution, shifting away from harmful stereotypes and embracing stories that are rich, real, and relatable.

Keep ReadingShow less
Female-led blockbusters: A global shift in cinema's power dynamics

Alia Bhatt in a powerful moment from Heart of Stone

Getty Images

Female-led blockbusters: A global shift in cinema's power dynamics

For decades, Hollywood clung to the idea that only male-led blockbusters could guarantee success. But that myth is rapidly crumbling. From Barbie and Wonder Woman to Gangubai Kathiawadi and Hi, Mom, female-led films are not just smashing box office records but also becoming cinematic game-changers. Audiences worldwide are embracing powerful female protagonists, proving over and over again that women aren’t just side characters in cinema’s biggest spectacles: they’re the main event.

She-roes of the box office

One of the biggest and visible examples of this shift came in 2023 with Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie. The film became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $1.4 billion worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of the year. Beyond its box office dominance, Barbie challenged stereotypes, delivering a witty yet poignant critique of gender roles while celebrating female empowerment.


Superhero films, again a traditionally male-dominated genre, have also seen a slow yet massive transformation. Wonder Woman, starring Gal Gadot and directed by Patty Jenkins, was a massive hit, earning $822 million globally. It proved that a female-led superhero film could be both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, paving the way for movies like Captain Marvel, which grossed $1.1 billion, and Black Widow, starring Scarlett Johansson, which dominated streaming and theatrical revenues.

Bollywood's leading ladies turned box office powerhouses

The change isn’t just happening in Hollywood. Bollywood and Mollywood industries have seen a surge in successful female-led films. Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Gangubai Kathiawadi , starring Alia Bhatt, was a game-changer. Based on a real-life story, the film showcased a woman’s rise to power in a male-dominated world and earned ₹209 crore ($25 million) globally again proving that audiences are eager for narratives centred on strong female protagonists.


Similarly, Darlings, a dark comedy starring Alia Bhatt and Shefali Shah, tackled the sensitive issue of domestic violence while performing well on Netflix. The film was praised for its unique and contemporary storytelling and strong female performances. Other Bollywood successes include Vidya Balan’s Kahaani, Taapsee Pannu’s Thappad, and Kangana Ranaut’s Queen, all proving that female-led narratives did resonate with audiences.

Box Office triumphs of women in malayalam cinema

The Malayalam film industry, known for its realistic storytelling, has also embraced strong female leads in recent years. Films like The Great Indian Kitchen challenged deep-rooted patriarchal norms through its raw portrayal of domestic expectations placed on women. The movie, starring Nimisha Sajayan, received international acclaim for its bold narrative.


Uyare, starring Parvathy Thiruvothu, brought to light the inspiring story of an acid attack survivor who fought against all odds to reclaim her dreams. Similarly, 22 Female Kottayam became a landmark film, showcasing a woman’s journey of revenge against those who wronged her. Additionally, the recent releases like Ullozhuku and Attam, which even bagged the national award continue this trend by bringing out complex female characters and their emotional journeys. These films are not just critically successful but also commercially viable, proving that audiences in Kerala and across the globe, thanks to OTT platforms, are open to powerful, female-driven narratives.

Global blockbusters: Women leading the way

Beyond Hollywood and Bollywood, several international films have demonstrated the power of female leads. In China, Hi, Mom, directed by and starring Jia Ling, became one of the highest-grossing films of all time, earning over $850 million. The film, which blends comedy with deep emotional storytelling, resonated with audiences worldwide.

In South Korea, Kim Ji-young, Born 1982 became a landmark feminist film, sparking discussions about gender inequality in Korean society. Starring Jung Yu-mi, the movie adapted a bestselling novel and became a major box office success, earning over $36 million.

French cinema has also seen powerful female-led films gaining international acclaim, such as Portrait of a Lady on Fire, directed by Céline Sciamma. Though not a blockbuster in terms of earnings, its impact on global audiences and critics was immense, proving that female-centric storytelling can be deeply influential.


But why are female-led films thriving all of a sudden?

  • Audience Demand: Viewers today want diverse and inclusive storytelling. Female audiences, long underserved in blockbuster cinema, are now a driving force at the box office.
  • Streaming Boom: Platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ have provided opportunities for unconventional female-led stories that might not have been greenlit in traditional cinema.
  • Industry Support: More women are taking leadership roles in filmmaking. Directors like Greta Gerwig, Chloé Zhao, Payal Kapadia and Patty Jenkins among many others are reshaping the industry with their unique and fresh perspectives.
  • Cultural Conversations: The #MeToo movement increased awareness of gender representation in media and pushed the industry to embrace strong female narratives.
The future is female : Celebrating women on screen

The success of these films is not just a trend—it’s a shift in the industry. Projects like Deadpool & Wolverine, Moana 2, Jee Le Zaraa and many more show that female-driven stories are here to stay.

From Hollywood to Bollywood and beyond, female-led blockbusters are proving their staying power. They are not just breaking box office records; they are breaking barriers and redefining what a blockbuster can be. As more studios invest in these narratives, audiences can look forward to a future where women continue to dominate the big screen—not just as characters, but as storytellers shaping cinema’s next era.
Keep ReadingShow less
Chinese new year 2025: Traditions, symbolism, and what the year of the snake represents

Celebrating the start of Chinese New Year 2025: The year of the snake

iStock

Chinese new year 2025: Traditions, symbolism, and what the year of the snake represents

As the Chinese New Year begins, it ushers in a time of reflection and renewal marking the arrival of the Year of the Snake, according to the Chinese zodiac, which follows a 12-year cycle of animals. With deep cultural significance, the festival not only celebrates the end of winter and the beginning of spring but also offers a chance to start anew with hope, tradition, and joy.


Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, has roots that stretch back over 3,500 years. It is the most important holiday in China, marked by various customs that bring families together to honour the past and welcome the future. This year, the holiday falls between January 28 and February 4, marking the return of the Snake in the zodiac cycle. The last Year of the Snake was in 2013, and those born in 2025 will share this animal’s traits—known for being wise, perceptive, and resilient.

In Chinese culture, each zodiac animal influences the characteristics of those born in its year. The Snake is associated with intelligence and intuition, often seen as both mysterious and strategic. This year, the Snake symbolises both the yin and yang: it represents darkness, femininity, and mystery but also renewal, growth, and wisdom. Known as a "little dragon," the snake’s ability to shed its skin signifies new beginnings, transformation, and good luck.

The customs and traditions associated with the festival reflect a deep respect for family and heritage. Homes are meticulously cleaned to rid them of bad luck, while red decorations such as lanterns and spring couplets adorn doorways to invite prosperity. The giving of red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money is a symbol of good fortune and a way to strengthen familial bonds. This is a time for families to come together, share meals, and embrace optimism and hope for the year ahead.

The Snake’s symbolism is powerful, intertwining notions of love, wealth, wisdom, and longevity. In Chinese folklore, the snake is often paired with the turtle and crane to represent these virtues. In particular, the “Legend of the White Snake” speaks to the complex nature of the snake, showing its connection with both danger and beauty, love and wisdom.

As the Year of the Snake begins, it is a chance to embrace its qualities of renewal and insight, navigating the year with wisdom and perseverance while celebrating the rich traditions that make this time so special.

Keep ReadingShow less
Nayantara Roy’s debut novel traces
love and secrets in family home

Nayantara Roy

Nayantara Roy’s debut novel traces love and secrets in family home

AMIT ROY

NAYANTARA ROY, who lives in Los Angeles – where she has a satisfying creative job as a television executive – has been talking to Eastern Eye about her debut novel, The Magnificent Ruins.

Roy has been safe from the fires where she lives in Silverlake in the east side of the city. But she can see the orangetinged cloud in the sky – “the situation is still dire in LA”. Santa Monica, where she works, has been threatened.

Keep ReadingShow less