Actress, choreographer and model, 42-year-old Tania Ahmed is now a director too. The actress has recently made her first foray into filmmaking with “Good Morning London,” an Impress Telefilm venture now in its post-production phase and likely to hit theatres in mid-2015.
What does the title “Good Morning London” mean?
“London” is the catchword here, encapsulating the general mood of the film. With the word in the title, it should also create an impression on many of the viewers. The film was shot both in London and Bangladesh.
Why did you choose to film in London?
There are many beautiful and shoot-worthy locations in the country. It’s also very resourceful, considering from the perspective of a director. But selecting London for filming was a random choice initially.
What was it like to direct a movie?
A film to a director is like a baby to a mother. Before a film gets released, a director’s nerves stay in a constant state of tension and you worry all the time about how the audience will react to it – whether they will accept it or not. Right now, this is what’s happening with me.
Doing ‘Good Morning London’ was fun, to say the least, and it was great working with a group of people who are equally spirited and fun-loving. I guess coming from a filmy family background made my job easier; I got support from my uncles who have been in the industry for long.
Tell us something about your cast?
Bidya Sinha Mim is the female lead in the movie. We needed a glamorous girl for her character and Mim was a perfect fit. She got the looks and the perfect height. There are established actors like Mir Sabbir and Nisho, as well as newcomer Sazzad, the champion of last year’s “Handsome the Ultimate Man” pageant.
So what’s the story of the film?
I don’t think it will be wise to reveal the plot yet. But it’s going to be of the action/romantic comedy genre, with music, dance, songs and all that. The movie has an interesting story.
Did you also act in the film?
I preferred not to. Behind the camera, you can dress casually and have all sorts of things going on around to deal with. It’s totally different in front of the camera, with your looks and moves being meticulously taken care of. I just wanted to concentrate on making a film this time.
Do you want to establish yourself as a director?
Being a performer is very easy. Everything is ready for an actor. But directing is a challenging task. I will continue my acting career, and will probably make a film or two every year.
You worked in a number of projects with late Humayun Ahmed. Any influence of him on your movie?
I learnt to love by reading his books. I worked with him for eight to nine years. Sir was like a father-figure to me. He had his own style of directing a film. Mine is completely different.
