A Wolverhampton filmmaker is celebrating the release of what is believed to be the world’s first English language Sikh superhero film, following a four year project that has already begun attracting international attention.
Hamraj “Flex” Singh, who runs Flexing Studios, premiered his debut feature The Ninth Master at a packed screening in Slough earlier this month. The independently produced film tells the story of a young orphan who grows into a warrior after crossing paths with a mysterious Samurai mentor.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
Singh, who grew up in the Midlands after moving to the UK as a child, said the film draws heavily on his own experiences of bullying and racism.
“I was singled out for my long hair and patka, and when I moved from Germany people mocked my accent,” he said. “Those things were tough, but they shaped me. I wanted to make something that shows strength can come from hardship.”
The film blends Sikh identity with influences from Samurai, Spartan and Viking traditions, something Singh hopes will appeal to viewers from all backgrounds.
He added: “There hasn’t been anyone who looks like me in mainstream British or Hollywood cinema. I knew this journey wouldn’t be easy, but I also knew it was something that had to be done. If a young person sees this and feels proud of who they are, that’s the real win.”
Picture credit: Pukaar News
Despite the scale of the project, Singh said financial gain was never his motivation.
“Money isn’t everything. It’s about leaving a positive message behind,” he said. “Our community believes in karma — what you do in this life matters. I wanted to make a film that encourages people to do good.”
Interest in the film has already spread far beyond the Midlands, with fans in India, Canada and the United States requesting screenings.
Singh hopes the momentum will continue to grow.
“My dream is for it to reach as many people as possible,” he said. “And yes, Hollywood is definitely on the list one day. But no matter where this goes, I’ll always represent Wolverhampton and the Sikh community with pride.”
Bristol-based actor Richard Chan also stars in the film, which was produced, directed, and written by Singh.
“My hat goes off to him because he knows exactly what he wants,” he said. “He has a clear vision – one he alone can fully see – and as actors, we appreciate understanding what he needs from us.
“The hardest person to please was probably Flex. We would do 20 or 30 takes, but it was absolutely worth it for the final product, which is spectacular.”
More local screenings are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
