Neha Dhupia attends the first-ever pan-India OTT awards in Mumbai. File/AFP

Actress Neha Dhupia is set make her International film debut with ‘Blue 52’, directed by renowned Egyptian filmmaker Ali El Arabi. Ali El Arabi, celebrated for his award-winning documentary feature ‘Captains of Za’atari’. ‘Blue 52’ unfolds against the stunning backdrops of Kochi, India, and Qatar.

Speaking of her international debut, Neha said: “Embarking on the journey of ‘Blue 52’ has been nothing short of magical. The fusion of diverse cultures in this international venture allowed me to delve deep into a character that is both challenging and emotionally resonant.” The actress said: “It’s a transformative experience that I believe will leave a lasting impact and I’m glad that Ali chose me to essay the lead in what is my international first.”

Director Ali El Arabi said: “Creating ‘Blue 52’ was a labor of love, blending the cinematic languages of Egypt, America, and India. Neha brought an unparalleled dedication to her role, infusing the character with a nuanced emotional depth.” “The picturesque locales of Kochi and the vibrant energy of Qatar served as the perfect canvas for our storytelling. This film is a testament to the collaborative spirit of international cinema, and I am excited for audiences to experience the richness we’ve crafted together.”

The film is the story of Ashish, who at the age of nine is isolated by his father when he loses his oldest son and using this fear he isolates Ashish on an island by the backwaters of Kochi, India. Growing up, Ashish becomes a boy trapped in a man’s body by the age of 22, with little knowledge of the world beyond his idol Messi and the life lessons imparted by his mother over the years, aimed at preparing him for life beyond their small island home.

Strengthened by newfound resolve, Ashish decides to leave home with his mother’s support and an opportunity that seems almost like a fantasy, offering him the chance to meet his idol, Messi, at the World Cup in Qatar 2022. Left to navigate the world on his own for the first time, he discovers his true self and finds his own passion. The film is Presented by Ambient Light with Ali El Arabi serving as director and producer, Tariq Al-Naama as producer. Krysanne Katsoolis, Joe Matthews and Katara Studios as co-producers.

Neha Dhupia’s Bollywood debut was with the 2003 film Qayamat: City Under Threat, which had an average performance at the box office. She rose to fame with her title role in Julie and then appeared in Sheesha (2005) in a dual role of twin sisters, but it did not do well at the box office. Dhupia then starred in films such as Kyaa Kool Hai Hum (2005) and Shootout at Lokhandwala (2007), which did well at the box office and featured in a segment of the anthology film Dus Kahaniyaan (2007).

In the following years, Dhupia appeared in supporting roles in multiple films including Chup Chup Ke (2006), Ek Chalis Ki Last Local (2007), Mithya (2008), Maharathi (2008), and Singh Is Kinng (2008) and Dasvidaniya (2008). In 2011, she played Eva Braun in the film Dear Friend Hitler about Mahatma Gandhi.

Agencies