International drama series “Indian Summers” will be filmed in Penang beginning late April 2014. The drama series, which is a major new ten part British and American television drama series is also the first international television production to be filmed entirely on location in Penang. The location was chosen by the international collaboration between UK’s New Productions Ltd and local company, Biscuit Films Sdn. Bhd.
The companies’ decision to film in Penang was made after an extensive global search was carried out for suitable locations. Amongst the sites considered were the Indian sub-continent and the Far East.
In addition to Crag Hotel and Woodside Bungalow, other traditional buildings in and around George Town like the Suffolk House, the Town Hall, the Botanical Gardens, the State Museum will also be featured in the series.
Penang’s Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng emphasised that apart from showcasing the dramatic colonial heritage the Island has to offer, the production of this television series will result in the restoration of certain heritage buildings to their former glory.
“In this regard, the producers will be working closely with the State Government to create a sustainable filming infrastructure for returning future series as well as ensuring that the present filming locations will be safeguarded and properly maintained throughout the filming duration”
“Also,a direct influx of interest, publicity and revenue for everything else that Penang has to offer, including her various available accommodations, sports facilities, gastronomic adventures, shopping haven and tourist attractions,” he said
The State Government stands to receive rental proceeds of RM650,000 for filming at the Crag Hotel from end of this month to 31 December 2015; and RM120,000 on a yearly basis for filming at the Woodside Bungalow beginning from end of April 2014 for a period of 5 years.
“In addition to the rental proceeds, it is estimated that the potential inflow from this filming project stands at Ringgit Malaysia Fifty Million and there will be employment opportunities for Penangites in terms of engagement of local contractors, suppliers and even budding actors!” said the MP.
Indian Summers tells the story of the final years of British colonial rule in India. Set between the sweeping grandeur of the Himalayas and tea plantations of Northern India, Indian Summers tells the rich and explosive story of the decline of the British Empire and the birth of modern India – seen through both British and Indian eyes.
Mr. Pattinson of New Pictures Ltd. is a leading International television Producer, his credits include award winning drama series such as Elizabeth 1st, The white queen, Shameless, Generation Kill, Skins and Wild at heart. Biscuit Films is a well-established local production company in commercials and films, their last production in Penang being Love and Death in Java in 2010. -The Rocket
