A Journey of Embracing Uncertainty: Zubin Mistry and the rise of Singularity in Dubai and across Asia
m25 values the stories behind their global network of premium companies. This week, Chris Thorp visited Dubai and sat down with Zubin Mistry a filmmaker with a 35-year career that began in the UK and took him from RSA to launching his own production company, Singularity. Mistry’s journey is a tale of persistence and genuine hard work. His story isn’t just about success it’s about the choices and moments that shaped his path.
Zubin Mistry’s filmmaking career has been a long, winding road, one marked by travel, growth, and constant learning. Growing up surrounded by the world of cinema, thanks to a father and uncle who were accomplished DOPs in India, the magic of film was instilled early. By the age of 14, being on set was second nature, and film school in the UK opened the door to a 35‑year journey filled with both challenges and triumphs.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with top companies like RSA and A list directors from around the globe,” said Mistry.
“The turning point for me was years ago, I worked on a global Reebok campaign that was conceptualised by Ridley Scott and had a three-month shooting schedule. When his feature got green lit, Mehdii Norowzian took over as director and I was the DOP, and we filmed in London and South Africa. Jake Scott managed the LA portion.
“After production, I stayed in LA for post production at RSA’s request as both Directors got unavailable. In those days we printed the neg to get a better film like look so we bleach bypassed 30,000 feet of film and made it real dark like Ridley’s brief you could barely see the athletes’ eyes.”
Mistry never thought Reebok would buy it, but they did and the campaign was a hit, earning him the AICP Best DOP award.
Later that year Kodak then invited Mistry to Cannes to speak on “breaking rules in advertising”.
“Surprisingly enough I didn’t get any calls for work for a couple of months, I thought maybe I had frightened the industry by going too far. But then it all changed and the work started to flow in. I knew then, that getting out of my comfort zone and embracing uncertainty was the only way forward.”
Mistry said every leap into uncertainty has opened unexpected doors.
“Establishing Singularity in Dubai, alongside my partner Nadya, was the next challenge, a bold move prompted by the unexpected securing of three major campaigns for Honda Middle East,” he said.
“The task of producing Honda’s 75th Anniversary brand film, with only the brief to surpass its iconic predecessor, ignited countless brainstorming sessions. A brilliant moment from our Executive Creative Director led us to ask, “What if one day, we all woke up knowing we had all dreamt the same dream?” That simple yet powerful idea not only met expectations but also marked the start of a new, exciting chapter for Singularity.”
“The competitive drive of earlier years has gradually given way to an appreciation for inclusivity. There is a true joy in fostering an environment where creativity is shared and everyone can thrive.
“In the ever-changing landscape of filmmaking where sustainability and AI are reshaping the industry, merging innovative tools with a respectful nod to tradition seems not only necessary but inspiring.
Based in Dubai and expanding across Asia, Mistry said this journey continues with a commitment not merely to creative excellence but also to tackling broader environmental and humanitarian challenges.
“Every risk taken, every moment of uncertainty embraced, is a step toward a future where creative storytelling is both bold and inclusive,” he said.
