An exciting story of community collaboration emerging from Birmingham, 'Pak Choi' is more than a short film; it is a landmark community engagement project that brings together the NHS, local government, business, and the city's brightest young creative talent.

Spearheaded by Birmingham filmmaker Chi Lam, this initiative has been developed in formal collaboration with the Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, the Birmingham Chinatown Business Association, and Councillor Yvonne Mosquito. The project has already garnered significant support, with the film's script earning a "clinician's seal of approval" from the clinical psychologists at the Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust for its authentic and heartfelt portrayal of mental health themes.

Key points include:

  • A Powerful Collaboration: A unique partnership between the NHS, a Business Association, and a council mentor, supporting homegrown talent.
  • Authentic Mental Health & Community Insight: The film’s narrative about an unlikely friendship exploring loneliness and connection has been developed with the NHS Trust and foundational community groups like the Chinese Community Centre - Birmingham and Acock's Green Men's Shed.
  • Star-Studded Cast: Features Ian Reddington (Coronation Street, Doctor Who) and Shanghai-born music legend Shen Xiaocen (Sue Shen), the celebrated lead actress from the Chinese production of ‘Mamma Mia!’.
  • A Lasting Legacy: The film will be used as a centrepiece for community screenings and workshops facilitated by the NHS Trust, with initial screenings planned to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 (May 11-17).

'Pak Choi' is a compelling, positive story about what can be achieved when our city's institutions and communities work together. The film's narrative - an unlikely friendship between a widower and a Chinese gardener - mirrors the very collaboration that brought it to life.

The production is a testament to homegrown talent, with a crew predominantly from Birmingham, led by Chi Lam, producer Amber Westgate, and veteran BBC Brummie producer Radley Russell. "This isn't just a film set; it's a meeting point for our entire community," says Chi Lam.

"We have the NHS ensuring our message on mental health is resonant and responsible, the BCTBA guaranteeing cultural authenticity, and Cllr Mosquito guiding us to ensure this project truly serves and represents the city. This is Birmingham at its best."

The project has received dedicated support from the Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, whose Community Development and Project Support teams have embedded the film with genuine mental health insight from the outset. The NHS Trust's Communications Department has also provided essential strategic support.

The production also extends its gratitude to the Chinese Community Centre - Birmingham, whose invaluable research and guidance have been instrumental in ensuring the authentic portrayal of the community. Crucially, the main research for the film was conducted with community groups at the heart of Birmingham, including the Chinese Community Centre - Birmingham and the Acock's Green Men's Shed, whose insights were foundational to the script's authenticity.

The film's script has earned a "clinician's seal of approval" from the Trust's clinical psychologists, who described it as an extremely good, timely, and authentic portrayal of the struggles older men can face in expressing emotions, and a heartfelt way to raise awareness. Cllr Yvonne Mosquito's mentorship of the young team underscores the project's commitment to nurturing local talent.

"I have watched this remarkable group of young people build bridges across our city," she said.

"They have listened, learned, and collaborated at every turn. 'Pak Choi' is a shining example of how to run a truly inclusive community project, and it is a wonderful honour to support them."

The film's cast bridges generations and cultures, both on and off screen, featuring acclaimed UK actor Ian Reddington (Coronation Street, Doctor Who) and Shanghai-born music legend Shen Xiaocen (Sue Shen), the celebrated lead actress from the Shanghai production of ‘Mamma Mia!’. The goal of 'Pak Choi' extends far beyond the final cut.

The film is designed as a centrepiece for community screenings and workshops facilitated by the NHS Trust, creating a lasting resource to spark conversations about loneliness and connection across Birmingham. The project aims to align its initial community screenings with Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK (May 11-17, 2026).

"We are not just funding the production of a film; we are investing in a conversation that will resonate through our community for years to come," said Dr Dorian Chan for the Birmingham Chinatown Business Association.

"This project proves the power of our collective voice!"