Renowned filmmaker Gurinder Chadha, celebrated for her 2002 hit ‘Bend It Like Beckham,’ has ventured into the festive genre with her latest creation, ‘Christmas Karma.’ This musical film, which premieres on November 14, offers a Bollywood-inspired adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless tale, ‘A Christmas Carol.’ Featuring a star-studded cast including Kunal Nayyar, Hugh Bonneville, Pixie Lott, Boy George, Danny Dyer, Charithra Chandran, and Eva Longoria, the film blends British and Indian cultural elements to deliver a heartwarming holiday narrative. Chadha, who also penned the script, aims to capture the essence of joy and celebration inherent in Bollywood cinema, making it a fitting tribute to the festive season. The story follows Mr. Sood, a modern-day Scrooge portrayed by Nayyar, who embarks on a transformative journey guided by three spirits. The film not only revisits Dickens’ themes of redemption and empathy but also delves into contemporary issues such as migration and racial dynamics in modern Britain. Chadha’s inspiration for the character of Mr. Sood stems from her own family experiences and observations of political rhetoric during the pandemic. The film also features a Bhangra Christmas song and a tribute to George Michael, performed by Bollywood icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas. With its blend of humor, emotion, and cultural richness, ‘Christmas Karma’ promises to be a festive treat for audiences worldwide.
Bend It Like Beckham director has a sequel – and a spin on a Christmas classic
