Trailer – Watch the Official UK trailer for 'ISH', the multi-award-winning feature debut from London-based writer, director, composer and visual artist Imran Perretta.
Released by BFI Distribution, 'ISH' opens in cinemas across the UK and Ireland on 31 July 2026, including an extended run at BFI Southbank, before arriving on BFI Player on 7 September.
Set and filmed within the South Asian and Middle Eastern community in Luton, the film follows 12-year-old best friends Ish and Maram as they navigate childhood, friendship and growing up against a backdrop of political tension and personal loss.
📍 Written & Directed by: Imran Perretta
📍 Co-written by: Enda Walsh
📍 Cinematography by: Jermaine Canute Edwards
📍 Distributor: BFI Distribution
📍 Genre: Coming-Of-Age Drama
📍 Release Date: 31 July 2026
📍 Cinemas: UK and Ireland
📍 BFI Player Release: 7 September 2026
📍 Starring: Farhan Hasnat, Yahya Kitana, Joy Crookes, Sudha Bhuchar and Avin Shah
🎬 Synopsis:
'ISH' follows 12-year-old best friends Ish and Maram, who find escape in football, gaming and shared stories while growing up in Luton.
Their friendship is built on carefree moments, but as they move towards adulthood, the world around them begins to intrude. After a police stop and search, where Maram is searched and Ish runs away, the boys are forced to confront the changing shape of their friendship.
As the impact of the incident takes hold, Ish and Maram try to make sense of the men they are becoming, and how letting go can be the hardest part of growing up.
The film premiered at Venice Critics’ Week, where it won the Audience Award, before screening in competition for the Sutherland Award at the BFI London Film Festival. Producer Dhiraj Mahey also won the BIFA for Breakthrough Producer.
🎞️ Watch the trailer
