Take part in a filmmaker roundtable in Manchester with the team behind coming-of-age story ISH.
Join us for a filmmaker roundtable with ISH director Imran Perretta and producer Dhiraj Mahey, ahead of a Q&A screening at HOME on Monday 3 August. Open to writers, directors and producers from across the North, this roundtable is a unique opportunity to gain valuable industry insights and hear first-hand from BFI-funded filmmakers.
Imran Perretta is a visual artist, writer, director and composer from London. His sound, installation and moving image work has been exhibited and performed at institutions internationally, including Tate Britain, Somerset House, Secession, ICA LA, BALTIC, Spike Island, Chisenhale Gallery and others. His debut, narrative feature film, Ish, which he co-wrote, directed and composed, was commissioned by the BBC and the BFI, and premiered at Venice Critic’s Week 2025, winning the Audience Award.
Dhiraj Mahey is a producer, consultant and tutor. He executive produced Gareth Tunley's acclaimed debut feature film The Ghoul and has produced numerous short films including the award winning Ekki Mukk by Nick Abrahams. He was Development Producer at Moonspun Films and Programme Manager at Inside Pictures, has worked as a consultant across both development and distribution, and has headed up various talent and skills development initiatives, including The John Brabourne Awards.
Roundtable and screening details:
Roundtable discussion with Imran Perretta and Dhiraj Mahey
Monday 3 August, 17:00 - 18:00
HOME, Manchester
The roundtable is free to attend and all participants can claim a free ticket for the ISH screening and Q&A that follows. Roundtable places are limited so please only sign up if you intend to take part.
To claim your free ticket for the screening, you’ll need to select the option at the bottom of the form. Tickets will only be distributed to those who attend the roundtable.
Film Screening and Q&A
Monday 3 August, 18:15 - 20:30
HOME, Manchester
Film synopsis: Set and filmed in Luton, Ish follows 12-year-old best friends Ish and Maram, who wrestle to hold onto their friendship in the wake of a police stop and search. As the ripples of that event take hold of their lives, the boys try to make sense of the men they are becoming – and how letting go can be the hardest part of growing up.
Image credit © Primal Pictures (2025)
