The BBC unveils the initial images from AA Dhand’s upcoming crime thriller, ‘Virdee’, set in Bradford.
- Filmed entirely in Bradford, this six-part drama adaptation brings Dhand’s narrative to the television screen.
- Composer Hans Zimmer contributes to the series’ score, adding a musical depth alongside James Everingham and Shashwat Sachdev.
- Bradford’s cultural landscape plays a prominent role with the series coinciding with its year as the UK City of Culture in 2025.
- A partnership between production teams and local bodies aims to foster talent through Screen Academy Bradford.
The BBC has recently shared the first glimpses of ‘Virdee’, an eagerly anticipated crime thriller penned by AA Dhand. The series unfolds a gripping tale set against the backdrop of Bradford, infusing an authentic local flavour into its storytelling.
Incorporating the talents of renowned composer Hans Zimmer, working alongside James Everingham and Shashwat Sachdev, the show’s musical theme promises to be both compelling and evocative. This ambitious six-part drama, entirely filmed in Bradford, offers viewers an intense experience of the city as it embraces its role as the UK City of Culture in 2025.
Directed by Mark Tonderai, Milad Alami, and Mo Ali, ‘Virdee’ is brought to life by a talented team. Each director brings their unique vision to the series, promising a dynamic and engaging narrative. The storyline follows Detective Harry Virdee, whose personal and professional life is marked by tension. Estranged from his Sikh family due to his marriage to a Muslim woman, Virdee navigates a complex web of gang conflicts threatening to overrun Bradford.
The series is executive produced by Paul Trijbits, AA Dhand, and Jo McClellan, ensuring a balance of creative vision and production excellence. The production has embraced collaboration with local organisations, forming Screen Academy Bradford. This initiative is set to create pathways for new talent, offering education and opportunities in the film and television industry in partnership with Bradford Council, WYCA, Screen Yorkshire, and the BBC.
‘Virdee’ is set amidst growing discord in Bradford, with gang rivalries spilling into the public domain, challenging the police force’s ability to maintain order. This narrative is poised to captivate audiences, reflecting the real-world complexities and cultural interplay of the city.
The unveiling of ‘Virdee’ signifies a significant cultural and cinematic venture set to enrich Bradford’s narrative as a city of culture.
