Factual
British drama doc. on 9/11 takes hijackers perspective
MUMBAI: As the third anniversary of the events of 9/11 draws near, British filmmaker Antonia Bird has come out with a drama documentary Hamburg Cell.
The film which aired on Channel 4 in the UK on 2 September, tells the story of how terrorist Ziad Jarrah helped hijack United Airlines flight 93, which crashed in Pennsylvania. It also looks at Mohammed Atta who flew one of the planes that hit the World Trade Centre.
Thus far, most material on 9/11 has looked at the victims of the attack. However the British film scrutinises the lives of the above mentioned hijackers. The film shows them in tender scenes with girlfriends and family. At the same time it also depicts an all-male world of hateful dogmatism.
Mentorn Films produced the film. Defending the approach David Aukin who heads the company’s drama division was quoted in a Reuters report saying, “Unless you know your enemies you don’t know how to deal with them, and just demonising them doesn’t help. Understanding that they are human beings gives us some sense of what we are up against.”
Another report in The Guardian added that the film premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival on 1 September.
Bird added that ever since 9/11 she thought about the people who drove the planes along the flight to disaster. “We knew nothing of them. So I found it fascinating to discover how these men got involved. Because of Michael Moore’s film Farenheit 9/11 people are much more open to the whole subject matter than they were a few months ago.”
Not surprisingly the British film has drawn the ire of certain sections. The parents of a British woman killed in the 9/11 events attacked the film as being tasteless and insensitive. Americans broadcasters had initially pulled out of the production. However talks are going on to distribute the film in US cinemas.
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
