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Debut Film “Ish” Examines Gaza War’s Impact on Luton Youth

7/24/2026

38 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Imran Perretta released his debut feature film “Ish”, a coming-of-age drama set in Luton.
The story follows 12-year-old Ish and his friend Maram, played by local untrained actors Farhan Hasnat and Yahya Kitana.
Perretta says the film shows how the Gaza war, state surveillance and constant social-media exposure affect British youth.
Critics compare “Ish” to Ken Loach’s “Kes” and Satyajit Ray’s Apu trilogy, noting its poetic tone.

History

Historical Context

Ken Loach’s 1969 film Kes, adapted from Barry Hines’s 1968 novel A Kestrel for a Knave, launched British cinema that focused on working-class life in Yorkshire. The film’s use of non-professional actors set a precedent for locally cast productions. The 2024 Luton-shot debut Ish follows that tradition, using untrained performers to explore youth amid conflict.

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Story summary

Imran Perretta released his debut feature film “Ish”, a coming-of-age drama set in Luton.
The story follows 12-year-old Ish and his friend Maram, played by local untrained actors Farhan Hasnat and Yahya Kitana.
Perretta says the film shows how the Gaza war, state surveillance and constant social-media exposure affect British youth.
Critics compare “Ish” to Ken Loach’s “Kes” and Satyajit Ray’s Apu trilogy, noting its poetic tone.

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