Nida Manzoor: From Soho Runner to Feature Film Director
The trajectory of Nida Manzoor's career is a testament to versatility in the creative arts. Starting from the ground up in the heart of London's production scene, Manzoor has evolved from a production assistant into a powerhouse writer, director, and executive producer known for her distinct comedic voice and cultural storytelling.
Early Career and Screenwriting
Manzoor began her journey in the film industry as a runner—an entry-level production assistant who handles various logistical tasks—working in Soho. Her transition into storytelling began with the CBBC (Children's BBC), where she secured roles as a screenwriter. Her early portfolio included short films such as Layla and Arcade, as well as writing episodes for Dixi, Jamillah, and Aladdin in 2016.
Transition to Directing and Television
Manzoor made her directorial debut in 2018 with the first series of Enterprice. That same year, she expanded her reach by directing the comedy pilot Hounslow Diaries for BBC Three. It was also during this period that she was commissioned to write and direct a pilot episode titled "Lady Parts," which served as the foundation for her most acclaimed television work.
The path to success was not without challenges. Following the screening of the "Lady Parts" pilot, Manzoor faced significant backlash regarding her portrayal of Muslim women, a situation that led her to temporarily close her social media accounts.
Despite these hurdles, her talent for directing continued to be recognized by major productions. In 2020, she directed two episodes of the iconic sci-fi series Doctor Who: "Fugitive of the Judoon" and "Nikola Tesla's Night of Terror."
The Success of We Are Lady Parts
In 2021, We Are Lady Parts transitioned from a pilot to a full series. Manzoor took on a comprehensive role as the writer, director, and executive producer. She has described the series as being somewhat autobiographical, drawing creative influence from the mockumentary style of This is Spinal Tap and the anarchic comedy of The Young Ones.
The show's musical identity was a family collaboration; Manzoor co-wrote the music with her siblings, Shez and Sanya Manzoor, and her brother-in-law, Benjamin 'Benni' Fregin. This collaboration resulted in a digitally released soundtrack album. Due to its success, the series was renewed for a second season in November 2021.
Feature Film Debut and Advisory Roles
Beyond her television work, Manzoor has contributed to the arts community as a member of the Pillars Artist Fellowship Advisory Board since 2021.
Her transition to cinema culminated in her debut feature film, Polite Society. Production concluded in early 2022, and the film was released in the UK in April 2023. Starring Priya Kansara and Ritu Arya, the film achieved global reach through international distribution by Universal Pictures.
Key Facts
- Career Start: Began as a runner in Soho before writing for CBBC.
- Major TV Work: Creator, writer, and director of We Are Lady Parts.
- Doctor Who: Directed "Fugitive of the Judoon" and "Nikola Tesla's Night of Terror" (2020).
- Feature Film: Directed Polite Society (2023), distributed by Universal Pictures.
- Musical Collaboration: Co-wrote music for We Are Lady Parts with siblings Shez and Sanya Manzoor and Benni Fregin.
| Project | Year | Role | Platform/Distributor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprice | 2018 | Director | Television |
| Hounslow Diaries | 2018 | Director | BBC Three |
| Doctor Who | 2020 | Director | BBC |
| We Are Lady Parts | 2021 | Writer, Director, Executive Producer | BBC |
| Polite Society | 2023 | Director | Universal Pictures |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Nida Manzoor's first role in the film industry?
Nida Manzoor started her career as a runner in Soho, which is an entry-level production role.
Which Doctor Who episodes did Nida Manzoor direct?
She directed the episodes "Fugitive of the Judoon" and "Nikola Tesla's Night of Terror," both aired in 2020.
What influenced the creation of We Are Lady Parts?
Manzoor has stated that the series is somewhat autobiographical and was influenced by This is Spinal Tap and The Young Ones.
Who collaborated with Manzoor on the music for We Are Lady Parts?
The music was co-written by Nida Manzoor, her siblings Shez and Sanya Manzoor, and her brother-in-law Benjamin 'Benni' Fregin.
What is Nida Manzoor's first feature film?
Her debut feature film is Polite Society, which was released in the UK in April 2023 and distributed internationally by Universal Pictures.