Apnas, the eagerly anticipated socio-cultural drama and crime story set in Manchester, was recently revealed to cast and crew during an exclusive screening at the ODEON Trafford Centre.

With the final cut complete and post-production underway, 160 cast and crew members recently attended a private screening of Apnas, celebrating the film’s completion and marking a major milestone for the AFA Productions team. 

The company is now in discussions with sales agents to secure distribution deals that will bring the film to a wider audience, focusing on the UK market.

Featuring a star-studded cast including Asim Ashraf, James Greaney, Nitin Ganatra, Rehan Sheikh, Mollie Winnard, Ash Tandon and Haiesha Mistry, Apnas takes audiences on a powerful journey through traditional family expectations within the South Asian community, the weight of moral dilemmas and the dangerous world of Manchester’s criminal underbelly.

The film also shines a spotlight on South Asian music. Lead actor and rapper Asim Ashraf, known as Ceazza, contributes to the soundtrack with original tracks, including a major collaboration with grime pioneer Wiley. Jonaid Hassan, widely recognised as G Bugz, and Aisha Osman take on key and debut roles in the film, reflecting AFA Productions’ commitment to championing multi-talented and young individuals who are redefining modern South Asian representation in UK cinema.

The current sales discussions mark the next phase in the film’s journey, with the team focused on securing the right platforms to showcase the feature to the public. By taking this step, AFA Productions aims to ensure the film reaches the communities and audiences whose stories it represents, while also positioning it as a significant addition to contemporary British cinema.

Fiaz Ashraf, CEO of AFA Productions, commented: “Seeing our vision for Apnas come to life on the big screen is an incredible feeling. From the very beginning, our goal was to bring together multiple touchpoints and create a cast of relatable characters that audiences could truly connect with.

Apnas is more than just a crime drama. It provides a window into the trials and experiences of the South Asian community, with authentic stories, relatable characters and genuine challenges. We’re excited to bring the film to the public.”

Apnas is a captivating feature film set in Manchester, exploring the lives of two British Pakistani cousins as they navigate the treacherous waters of the criminal underworld. The film delves into their moral journey, shedding light on the dual existence they lead amidst traditional family expectations and social pressures.

 From rags to riches, and ultimately facing the spectre of death, ‘Apnas’ poses the griping question: will they make their escape in time and faith?

The production is being co-directed by leading industry professionals Ashley Chin and Darren R.L. Gordon. Ashley, a highly-acclaimed actor and film director, began his prolific acting career in 1999 in the BBC film ‘Storm Damage’, and has held roles in other major productions including ‘The Fixer’, ‘Law & Order’, ‘Starred Up’ and ‘Fedz’. 

Eminent Director, Agent and Acting Coach Darren, works with an ever-increasing number of high-profile clients and industry specialists; as an agent, he has supported members of his cohort to secure significant roles in major productions.