Factual
Creative Eye ropes in director Roger Christian for English film venture
MUMBAI: In what could be the first instance of a television software production house producing an out-and-out English film, Creative Eye has signed up Academy Award winning director Roger Christian for its new project.
The Dheeraj Kumar promoted Creative Eye, which recently patented an indigenously developed 3D plus technology, using which it is creating India’s first 3D film Aabra Ka Dabra that will not entail modifying cinema screens, is now on the threshold of launching Behind the Painted Veil with Christian as the director.
Kumar says the deal, that got signed only over the weekend, is targeted at an international market, though it will also be released in India. The film will have two scriptwriters, one of them an Indian, Milind Ukki. Christian, who won an Oscar for set decoration on Star Wars, will start shooting in Hrishikesh this December. The film is scheduled for an August 2004 launch, says Kumar, while pointing out this will not be a crossover film, but a pure English film, funded by an Indian production house.
A medium budget film, this will be the second feature film from the Creative Eye stable, which has thus far made its fortune by churning out a series of mythological series for Doordarshan as well as satellite channels.
The story of Behind the Painted Veil, says Kumar, revolves around a girl, Sophia and her journey to India. “It’s a ‘scientific supernatural film’ revolving around her mystic journey,” is all Kumar will reveal at present.
The cast, which could include a few Indian names like Gulshan Grover and Irfan Khan, could also have the likes of Susan Lynch and Madchen Amik as part of the line up.
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.
