Like thousands of migrants, Dildar Singh (portrayed by Sunny Sehgal) arrives in New Zealand with suitcases full of personal effects and a mind full of dreams to make it big in a country that is touted as an ideal destination for in search of a new country for settlement.
Like thousands of migrants, he was disappointed – there are no jobs on offer, he is considered either ‘over-qualified’ for some posts or ‘does not have New Zealand experience.’ As things turn worse, he becomes the victim of an immigration scam.
Mr Singh Wants PR is a film that could narrate your own story or that of a friend or an acquaintance. Produced by Golden Lotus Creations and directed by Pakistan born Fahad Sher Hussain, it brings to the fore the woes of innocent people who arrive here on legitimate grounds but lead lives that are worse than those of refugees.
Hussain says the storyboard reflects his observation of victims.
“I have watched at least two friends suffer at the hands of unscrupulous immigration agents and thought of capturing these situations on film. Although produced on a shoestring budget, we hope that the movie will have its impact on people,” he said.
Mr Singh Wants PR has a number of stalwarts behind its production. Among them are sound engineer and designer Jonathan Paul Paynter, Dion James Pitman (New Zealand) and producer Kailashwar Nand (Fiji).
According to Hussain, a majority of the cast faced the camera for the first time while shooting for the film. It features Rishi Deepak (a local artist, with a few TV credits), Sunny Sehgal, Priya Wallabh, Chontelle Mills and Darshan.
“The entire film was shot on a handheld camera, which enhances the element of reality. This is a truly Auckland film, shot in New Zealand’s largest city.
“Some segments of the Punjabi population were unhappy with the title of the film but after watching it, they will realise that it is a film that actually promotes Punjabi culture, its beauty and the diversity,” he said.
He is sure that most victims of immigration scams and joblessness will identify themselves with Dildar and his trials and tribulations.
Hussain insisted that Mr Singh Wants PR has its lighter moments as well
“As well as a dance number by local actor Anjula Prakash, the film features some performers selling ‘Green Jalebis,’ and marijuana to collect money for Dildar to stay in the country. Kiwi culture, beaches, farms and the bustling Auckland life are also part of the scenarios,” he said.
The film will screen at Hollywood cinemas in Avondale on May 3, 2012.
Hussain said talks are on for showing the film at the Singapore Migrant’s Festival and at theatres in India and Pakistan.
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