Douglas Henshall, known for his role as DI Jimmy Perez in BBC's Shetland, has landed a new role in the "meaningful" historical drama Angh. The independent film marks the directorial debut of Theja Rio and is set against the backdrop of 1960s Nagaland in Eastern India. It aims to shed light on an unexplored chapter of the region's past.
According to reports from Variety, Henshall will be playing a "pivotal" character in the movie. The official synopsis reveals that, "In 1960s Nagaland, a proud Konyak chief struggles to protect his dying traditions when an American missionary arrives with promises of aid that threaten his people's identity. As his wife's health deteriorates and famine looms, he and his mute son must make an impossible choice between survival and staying true to their ancestral ways." This narrative promises to explore profound themes of cultural identity and the impacts of external influences.
The film is notable not only for its compelling story but also for its commitment to authenticity. It will feature a cast composed primarily of first-time local actors from the area. To enhance the film's aesthetic, Angh will be shot entirely on 16mm film, which is expected to lend a textured look to the storytelling. Upon completion of production, Angh is slated to premiere on the international festival circuit, although a specific release date remains unconfirmed.
Director Theja Rio expressed his excitement about the project, stating, "We are incredibly excited to bring this story to life. Nagaland's history, culture, and untold narratives hold immense cinematic potential, and this film is our way of sharing them with the world." He emphasized that shooting on 16mm and collaborating with local actors makes this project truly special. "We believe it will be a meaningful addition to the cinematic landscape," he added.
Producer Nancy Nisa Beso echoed these sentiments, stating, "This film is deeply personal to us. We are telling a story rooted in Nagaland's history, but with themes that are universal. Bringing together local talent, a young international crew, and shooting on 16mm has been a rare and special experience. Having Douglas Henshall join us only strengthens our vision, and we can't wait to share this film with the world." This collaborative effort highlights the importance of local narratives and the voices that tell them.
Henshall's casting in Angh comes after he left his role in Shetland back in 2022, where he starred as DI Jimmy Perez for seven seasons. The popular detective drama continues to thrive, with its ninth season premiering on BBC One in December 2024. Fans will also see the return of Ashley Jensen, who plays DI Ruth Calder, for the show's tenth season, which began filming in Scotland earlier this month.
Shetland has garnered a loyal following and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer, allowing new audiences to discover the series. Henshall's transition from the acclaimed show to a historical drama highlights his versatility as an actor and his commitment to exploring diverse roles.
As the film industry increasingly seeks to tell stories that reflect underrepresented histories, Angh stands out as a project that aims to do just that. By focusing on the cultural heritage of Nagaland and the struggles faced by its people, the film promises to offer a poignant narrative that resonates with universal themes of identity, survival, and the preservation of tradition.
With Henshall at the forefront, the film is poised to attract attention not only for its artistic merit but also for its cultural significance. The combination of local talent and a dedicated international crew working together creates a unique opportunity to showcase Nagaland's rich history and the challenges it faces in a rapidly changing world.
As anticipation builds for Angh, audiences are eager to see how this historical drama will unfold. The film's commitment to authenticity, combined with its exploration of profound themes, sets the stage for a powerful cinematic experience that could leave a lasting impact.
