Speedy Singhs Produced by: Akshay Kumar, Ajay Virmani Executive Producers: Russell Peters, Pauline Dhillon, Paul Gross, Clayton Peters Directed by: Robert Lieberman Cast: Rob Lowe, Russell Peters, Camilla Belle, Vinay Virmani, Anupam Kher Genre: Family Drama Language: Hindi UK Release 30th September 2011

Produced by First Take Entertainment and Hari Om Entertainment, ‘Speedy Singh’ is a gripping, cross-cultural hockey drama set in the Indo-Canadian community of suburban Toronto, Canada. Directed by Hollywood filmmaker Robert Lieberman, ‘Speedy Singh’ features Hollywood heartthrob, Rob Lowe; global comedy sensation Russell Peters and the demure Camilla Belle alongside Indian stars including sensational screen debutant Vinay Virmani and acting veteran Anupam Kher.

The co-producer of the film is Bollywood star, Akshay Kumar, who makes a guest appearance as himself in the film. Other cameos are provided by the likes of recording artist and actor Aubrey “Drake” Graham and Grammy Award winning rapper Chris “Ludacris” Bridges. Ludacris added his vocals to the cross-urban music track of the year, “Shera Di Kaum”, the promotional song for ‘Speedy Singh’, where he also features in the video.

Riveting, entertaining but also entrenched in a strong social context, ‘Speedy Singh’ explores the issues of race relations, migration and cross-cultural tensions while superbly balancing both tenderness and humour. It tells the story of a young man caught between two cultures and two sets of ideals. The film speaks of the sports genre underdog, but in this case, the underdog reflects issues of assimilation that immigrants deal with daily as they strive for acceptance in their new home country. It gives the audience an insight into the little known Sikh culture.

Synopsis:

‘Rajveer Singh’ (Vinay Virmani) is 21 years old and aspires to play professional hockey, struggling to succeed in a predominantly white man’s sport. Facing prejudice from his peers, he decides to assemble an all-Sikh hockey team called ‘Speedy Singhs’ and these talented young men begin a challenging journey of social acceptance and ethnic assimilation, while still retaining their proud roots. However, further conflict arises for Rajveer at home, as his orthodox Sikh father (Anupam Kher) wants him to dedicate his life to the family business and the Sikh faith. Caught at the crossroads between family duty and following his dreams, Rajveer prepares for the biggest challenge and game of his life.

'Speedy Singhs' releases in cinemas across the UK on 30th September 2011.