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Discover your deepest fears as &PrivéHD premieres the coming-of-age story of Kayla in ‘Eighth Grade’
MUMBAI: Is virtual truly the new reality? Does your social following define who you really are? In the age of digital dominance, witness a coming-of-age story about an eighth grader who struggles with anxiety to make her presence felt. &PrivéHD is set to premiere the heart-warming tale of a teenager, stuck between her charming identity in the virtual world and self-doubting persona in the real world. The premium destination for nuanced cinema will air the comedy-drama movie ‘Eighth Grade’ on Saturday, September 21, 2019, at 1PM and 9PM.
Directed by the comedian-turned-filmmaker Bo Burnham in his feature debut, the film stars young Elsie Fisher in the lead role as it opens your eyes to the other side of life through a teenager’s lens. The film received numerous awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe nomination for Fisher and Writers Guild and Directors Guild of America Awards for Burnham.
The film revolves around the life of a thirteen-year-old girl Kayla (Elsie Fisher) who is nearing the end of middle school, with only a week left to complete eighth grade before she moves to high school. A shy and introverted Kayla, grapples with being labelled as the ‘most quiet’ in her school. She soon takes to YouTube to express herself with motivational vlogs. Coming from the Gen Z that thrives on digital – Kayla is one of the many who constantly suffer from anxiety and depression. The film portrays the teenager’s encounters with her ignorant peers, her single father and her school crush as she finds her true identity and reignites her hopes and dreams together with love and laughter.
Will Kayla survive the storm of the Eighth Grade and eventually break out of her shell?
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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.
