Following its world premiere at the UK Asian Film Festival (UKAFF), Indo-British sports drama ‘A Game of Two Halves’ is set for the UK cinemas this week (June 7). Set across Britain and India, the film follows the journey of Sanjay, a young British student, played by actor Saaj Raja.
In this interview, Raja reflects upon the role, his own journey of self-discovery and some anecdotes from the film set.
What initially drew you to the role of Sanjay in 'A Game of Two Halves'?
Two things immediately drew me to the role; the fact it’s a coming-of-age story about Sanjay discovering his identity and roots. Also, it’s a film about football which I absolutely love and have grown up with.
How did you prepare for the role of Sanjay?
A lot of the ‘prep’ was inherently present in my childhood and teenage experiences as a first generation, British South Asian male trying to fit in and find his place. I had to journey through this experience and find the synergies with Sanjay. I also spent time in conversation about (director) Khayam about his own past experiences which were similar.
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What was it like filming in Hyderabad, and how did these contrasting locations influence your role?
It was my first time in Hyderabad – just as it’s Sanjay’s first time. I got to go on that journey of discovery on camera. I loved the experience of filming in India. It was very enriching, working with the excellent local cast and an incredible crew. There was a certain warmth and vibrance to filming in India compared to the cold council estates and school pitches of the UK!
I think this change in energy and warmth is very evident in the film and also for Sanjay’s journey. He is very cold to the prospect of coaching in Hyderabad but the real magic begins to happen when he begins warms to it.
Can you share any memorable experiences or anecdotes from working with the children in the film?
The best part about the entire filming experience was working with the children. They were full of life and so giving. For many of the kids, it was their first time playing football. Practicing drills and playing games together during down time was a highlight. Sachin was a joy to work with and a dynamic presence on set, he loved getting stuck into the role of Harnidh.
The most memorable experiences with him were shooting the sunset and sunrise sequences. We had extremely limited time windows to get the perfect shots, but we made them happen and they look beautiful on screen.
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The film deals with themes of acceptance and self-discovery; how do you relate to these themes personally?
The journey that Sanjay goes on is so important and telling because he goes through a lot before learning that it starts with self-acceptance, not external validation. During the filming process I was acutely aware of these themes being present in my own life and the life of the character. Going to India and experiencing life there for a month was instrumental for Sanjay’s self-discovery and also my own.