A BRADFORD actress starring in the first ever British movie with a South Asian leading couple, is bringing her debut film back to her home city.
Nikki Patel, best known for her character Amber Kalirai in ITV’S Coronation Street, plays Sweetie, the old friend of the lead in Director Pravesh Kumar MBE’s romantic comedy Little English.
The film is set in sunny Slough, where Punjabi newlywed Simmy unexpectedly faces disappointment when her British Asian husband does a runner on their wedding night.
Nikki described her character Sweetie as an ambitious Insta-blogger from Slough, who will do anything to make a name for herself to get out of the area.
She said: “I loved playing Sweetie, she’s very different to me and so unique.
“She will stop at nothing to get her happy ending.”
The film has seen a huge amount of success after it premiered at London Indian Film festival, last year.
The film boasts an all South- Asian leading cast, something unheard of before Little English.
Nikki said: “Everywhere we have had a screening, Manchester, Birmingham, they’ve had to move to a bigger screen because it’s had such a huge response from the audience.
“People loved the film, and they love the gorgeous story- it’s a proper rom-com.
“When I read the script, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
“It’s hilarious, poignant at times and it has a message that resonates with everyone.
“This is the story of our mums and aunties when they first came to this country after getting married.”
Nikki has worked In TV and film for the last 15 years, starting out at the age of 15. She’s been in soaps, worked on some films and starred in plays.
When asked about her experience in acting, she said: “You have to love all parts of it and you have to be enthusiastic.
“It can be really difficult, but it’s worth it.
“If you want to get into acting and TV, go to as many plays as you can, watch as many shows on TV as you can and try to hustle your way onto sets.
“If you want it, you’ll have to give it everything.”
Nikki described the film as ‘big bold and unapologetically authentic’ urging people to come and watch the film.
“It’s such a good film and I’m glad I got to be a part of it.”
Extra screening dates were added at The Light and now the film will be screened at the Pictureville Theatre on March 31 and April 2. Tickets and viewing times can be booked here.
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