The UK’s first Sikh superhero film is set to be premiered in East London, on the 21st March.
The Ninth Master: Way of a Warrior, an independent British film is going to be showcased in Romford, marking a huge milestone in Sikh representation.
Writer, director, producer and lead actor, Flex Singh, places martial arts at the core of this film to portray central Sikh values, such as discipline and Chardikala, the concept of always remaining in high spirits, against adversity.
Singh said: “Chardikala is everything for me. I have had so many ups and downs in life and it’s through the teachings of our Gurus, and what Chardikala means, to forever be in rising spirits, through hardships.
“I waited years and I am sure many people in the Sikh and Punjabi community have waited for many years too…I thought with anything in life you have to create your own opportunities and that’s what I have done.”
The film aims to expand Sikh voices while showing the importance of courage and selflessness.
It also promotes cultural diversity by showcasing warriors from not only Punjabi or Sikh origin but other cultures such as Vikings, Samurais and Chinese warriors.
Singh said that this diverse vision is what he had in mind when creating this film, as he likes representing not just Sikh cultures but cultures across the world.
Produced by an independent studio, FlexSingh studios, this 2 hour film has been shot in live locations, from the streets of London to mountains and forests.
Taking 4 years in the making, Singh reflects on the journey from creating short films on Youtube such as Tough World, to the premiere of this feature film and the difficulty to break into the world of cinema without connections.
He said: “A rollercoaster of a journey, and a lot of ups and downs.
“To be an actor in a leading role, you either need a lot of Hollywood support which we don’t have so I had to create the opportunity myself and that’s what we have done with the strength of the people and God’s blessings.”
This film also stars Richard Chan as the ancient Samurai Sensei, Kumaru and Marty Mummery as the film’s antagonist, Titus.
Actor and stunt performer Marty Mummery described his learning about the history of Sikhs as a ‘very humbling and welcoming experience.’
Alongside creating this film to take Sikh representation to a global level, the Ninth Master Team including Flex Singh and Alehkem Copeland have recently gone around university campuses in the Midlands in support of the Sikh service, langar.
‘Langar’ refers to a community kitchen, providing people with free food and emphasising the Sikh value of seva, selfless service.
Copeland spoke warmly about his positive experiences with the Sikh community.
He said: “They treat everyone as equal and they are very giving and loving towards other nations and cultures.”
Upon being asked what message he would like to deliver to the youth, Singh said: “What I want the youth to know is that this film is made for everybody who feels unseen… just know that you are visible and we see you.”
The Ninth Master film recently had a World Premiere in Slough on the 21st February, which received an overwhelmingly positive response, with seats being sold out almost instantly.
The film will premiere on Friday 21st March in Romford, followed by a premiere in Birmingham on Thursday 12th March.
You can find out more on The Ninth Master website: https://www.theninthmaster.com
Featured image credit: Flex Singh
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