Earlier this week, Prime Video dropped an action-packed trailer of Pippa, a thrilling war film that has left viewers eagerly anticipating its release. The film takes its inspiration from the indomitable PT-76 amphibious war tank, endearingly named 'Pippa,' and follows the life journey of Captain Balram Mehta, portrayed brilliantly by Ishaan Khatter as he serves in the esteemed 45 Cavalry Tank Squadron.
As the trailer offers a tantalizing look into this compelling war drama, let's delve into five moments that have already captured our attention and set the stage for an unmissable cinematic adventure.
1. A Glimpse of the Indian Army in the 1970s
Transported back to the 1970s, we witness the 45 Cavalry Tank Squadron gathering for a pivotal mission. The former Prime Minister's historic declaration, signalling Pakistan's assault on Indian airfields, sets the stage for war. This scene not only stirs profound patriotism but also serves as a poignant reminder of our true heroes' sacrifices for the nation.
2. The Legendary War Tank
The film's title, 'Pippa,' pays homage to the PT-76, an amphibious war tank fondly referred to as 'Pippa' by Punjabi soldiers, akin to an empty ghee tin that floats effortlessly in water. The war tank used by the Indian Army during the conflict was purposefully designed for enhanced firepower and protection, tailored for wartime scenarios.
3, Ishaan Khatter's Remarkable Transformation
Ishaan's portrayal of real-life war hero Captain Balram Mehta is a remarkable transformation, complete with military attire, authentic mannerisms, and an unwavering sense of patriotism. His performance promises to inspire and reveal a new facet of his acting prowess. As an Indian Army Officer on a mission to liberate another nation, he redefines the essence of a true hero, creating a captivating cinematic experience.
4. Stellar Star Cast
The film boasts an impressive cast, including Ishaan, Mrunal Thakur, Priyanshu Painyuli, and Soni Razdan. This ensemble not only adds to the film's captivating appeal but also enhances the authenticity of the narrative, enabling the audience to connect deeply with the characters.
5. AR Rahman's Mesmerizing Score
Prepare to be spellbound by the enchanting harmony between AR Rahman's music and the captivating visuals in the trailer. This musical journey perfectly conveys the characters' emotions, motivations, and the story's evolution, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
Mark your calendars for November 10 when Pippa premieres on Prime Video. Don't miss this unforgettable war drama this Diwali weekend.
Forum brings UK and Chinese film professionals together to explore collaborations.
Emerging British-Asian talent gain mentorship and international exposure.
Small-scale dramas, kids’ shows, and adapting popular formats were the projects everyone was talking about.
Telling stories that feel real to their culture, yet can connect with anyone, is what makes them work worldwide.
Meeting three times a year keeps the UK and China talking, creating opportunities that last beyond one event.
The theatre was packed for the Third Shanghai–London Screen Industry Forum. Between panels and workshops, filmmakers, producers and executives discussed ideas and business cards and it felt more than just a summit. British-Asian filmmakers were meeting and greeting the Chinese industry in an attempt to explore genuine possibilities of working in China’s film market.
UK China film collaborations take off as Third Shanghai London Forum connects British Asian filmmakers with Chinese studios Instagram/ukchinafilm
What makes the forum important for British-Asian filmmakers?
For filmmakers whose films explore identity and belonging, this is a chance to show their work on an international stage, meet Chinese directors, talk co-productions and break cultural walls that normally feel unscalable. “It’s invaluable,” Abid Khan said after a panel, “because you can’t create globally if you don’t talk globally.”
And it’s not just established names. Young filmmakers were all around, pitching ideas and learning on the go. The forum gave them a chance to get noticed with mentoring, workshops, and live pitch sessions.
Which projects are catching international attention?
Micro-dramas are trending. Roy Lu of Linmon International says vertical content for apps is “where it’s at.” They’ve done US, Canada, Australia and next stop, Europe. YouTube is back in focus too, thanks to Rosemary Reed of POW TV Studios. Short attention spans and three-minute hits, she’s ready.
Children’s and sports shows are another hotspot. Jiella Esmat of 8Lions is developing Touch Grass, a football-themed children’s show. The logic is simple: sports and kids content unite families, like global glue.
Then there’s format adaptation. Lu also talked about Nothing But 30, a Chinese series with 7 billion streams. The plan is for an english version in London. Not a straight translation, but a cultural transformation. “‘30’ in London isn’t just words,” Lu says. “It’s a new story.”
Jason Zhang of Stellar Pictures says international audiences respond when culture isn’t just a background prop. Lanterns, flowers, rituals, they’re part of the plot. Cedric Behrel from Trinity CineAsia adds: you need context. Western audiences don’t know Journey to the West, so co-production helps them understand without diluting the story.
Economic sense matters too. Roy Lu stresses: pick your market, make it financially viable. Esmat likens ideal co-productions to a marriage: “Multicultural teams naturally think about what works globally and what doesn’t.”
The UK-China Film Collab’s Future Talent Programme is taking on eight students or recent grads this year. They’re getting the backstage access to international filmmaking that few ever see, including mentorship, festival organising and hands-on experience. Alumni are landing real jobs: accredited festival journalists, Beijing producers, curators at The National Gallery.
Adrian Wootton OBE reminded everyone: “We exist through partnerships, networks, and collaboration.” Yin Xin from Shanghai Media Group noted that tri-annual gathering: London, Shanghai, Hong Kong create an “intensive concentration” of ideas.
Actor-director Zhang Luyi said it best: cultural exchange isn’t telling your story to someone, it’s creating stories together.
The Shanghai-London Screen Industry Forum is no longer just a talking shop. It’s a launchpad, a bridge. And for British-Asian filmmakers and emerging talent, it’s a chance to turn ideas into reality.
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