Newcastle set to take Bollywood by storm

Jul 23 2008 by Paul Loraine, The Journal

BOLLYWOOD’S answer to Brad Pitt revealed he chose Newcastle for his latest film because of the city’s beautiful architecture.

The Indian actor and producer also said he was impressed by the cleanliness of the streets and buildings when he came to visit. And he predicted filmgoers would flock to visit when they saw it on screen.

Bollywood heart-throb Arshad Wasi was in the city yesterday with his 60-strong crew to shoot scenes for his latest blockbuster. They will be in the North East until the middle of September filming Kaun Bola, which means I Believe in Angels.

Yesterday they filmed a scene at the junction between John Dobson Street and Northumberland Road in the city centre, but they are set to shoot at a number of city locations.

The film’s stars – other Mumbai A-listers Diya Mirza, Boman Irani and Tinu Anand – posed for photographs and signed autographs.

Arshad said: “It’s a romantic comedy, a very sweet film. I am a producer and an actor in the film and we chose Newcastle because it is a lot cleaner than other cities we looked at.

“The architecture is wonderful and looks great on screen. I think a lot of people, when they see the movie, will want to come to Newcastle.

“The council have also been very co-operative, which made our decision easier.”

When filming concludes in Newcastle, the crew will move on to London and then to India.

Arshad revealed it was often difficult to get permission to film in the capital and they encounter a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere in Newcastle.

He said: “It has been a pleasure so far and everyone has been very friendly and supportive.”

Candy Films, the production company behind the project, carried out a search in the North East for extras and dancers.

The company held a casting call at Tyne Tees Models agency in Newcastle last weekend.

Fan Graham McManus, a 23-year-old student from Heaton, Newcastle, said it was great to see the city becoming a sought-after location to shoot films.

He said: “You can see why crews would want to film here.

“I am a big fan of film in general so I was really interested to see what was going on here.

“I know a bit about Bollywood films, so I’ve heard of some of the actors and to see them close up is pretty awe inspiring.

“Let’s hope that Newcastle can keep attracting film crews because it can only help the image of the city.”