"Chicken Tikka Masala"

Gala Launch "Chicken Tikka Masala" FILM

 

London, April 19, 2004

The filming of a new British Asian Comedy, which is costing £1.2 million, has started in the North-West of England. The parts of two of the main characters in the film are being played by actors Peter Ash and Chris Bisson. The feature film also stars bollywood veteran actors Saeed Jaffrey and Zora Segal. It is anticipated that 'Chicken Tikka Masala' will be released in the UK towards the end of the year.

The launch of the feature film was marked by the Mayor of Preston, Neil Cartwright lighting a ceremonial lamp. He then unveiled a hand painted poster of Chicken Tikka Masala. This poster depicts the ethos of Preston, the people, the culture and the story of the film in an abstract form. The Mayor officially announced the launch of the feature at the Harris Museum in Preston on Thursday, February 12, 2004. Some key dignitaries present at the occasion were Steven Jones, Director for Regeneration; Vali Patel, Chair of the Lancashire County Council; Andrew Patrick, Creative Consultant, Regional Development Agency, Colin Pons, Chief Executive, Studio of North, Mike Wilson, Business Advisor, Business Link, North & West Lancashire, Keith Launchbury, Jenny Rutter, Preston City Council, Peter Robertson, Glenda Brindle, University of Central Lancashire and Ajit Medtia, millionaire business tycoon, Red Lion Constructions The event had an audience of more than 200 people. The guests were entertained to a dance performance by two young girl artists and some lively singing by Karen Atherton, all from Preston.

The filmmakers hope that it will follow in the success of hits like, 'Bend it Like Beckham', 'Bhaji on the Beach' and 'East is East'. 'Chicken Tikka Masala' is based on the lives of three main characters who live in Preston in Lancashire. Using comedy the film will explore the themes of diversity, culture and sexual orientation.