Imran Perretta's Debut Feature 'Ish' Draws on British Coming-of-Age Cinema

Imran Perretta, an artist and filmmaker with a diverse background, has unveiled his first feature film titled 'Ish'. The narrative centers on the close friendship between Ish and Maram, portrayed by non-professional actors Farhan Hasnat and Yahya Kitana, set in Luton. The film delves into themes of camaraderie, grief, and political strife, drawing inspiration from the Gaza conflict and heightened state surveillance. Perretta references five influential British coming-of-age films that informed his creation: 'The Selfish Giant' (2013) by Clio Barnard, 'A Room for Romeo Brass' (1999) by Shane Meadows, 'Kes' (1969) by Ken Loach, 'Ratcatcher' (1999) by Lynne Ramsay, and 'Oliver Twist' (1948) by David Lean. Aiming to address the underrepresentation of South Asians in this genre, 'Ish' is part of BFI Fan's youth culture season 'Rip It Up', running until October 31. Perretta's earlier works have examined the marginalization of diasporic communities and the effects of the war on terror on young people in the UK.