Even while the greatest filmmakers are driven by passion, successful filmmakers will tell you that one also needs a clear vision and a practical approach to their job, at least to some level.
Nowadays, more and more young people in India are drawn to the profession of filmmaking since it is so exciting. The need for this profession is only going to increase as film production outfits like Video Production Company in Mumbai - independent film production and the number of OTT platforms increase across the nation. But it's crucial to understand what it takes to turn it into a career, and no one else can do that better than a filmmaker.
Filmmaker Radhika Lavu provides insight into information about the duties and responsibilities of a filmmaker, crucial factors to take into account before deciding on this career path, the requirements for enrolling in a filmmaking course, its focus, and much more in an expository interview.
For many people, making movies has long been a passion. Today, though, a growing number of young people are showing an interest in pursuing careers in this area.
The main duty of a filmmaker is to be truthful with their viewers. In movies, it is always crucial to paint a sincere and genuine portrayal of whatever it is you are trying to showcase in your endeavor. Additionally, one needs to have a knack for storytelling, ethically convey their message, and show respect to all the artists who contributed to their vision.
Apart from that, there are no guidelines for creativity; it all comes down to weaving a strong thread from one's imagination. Filmmaking is all about telling compelling stories that are both visually and emotionally compelling through a potent medium.
Is there any further things one should take into account before deciding on this professional path, besides having a passion for filmmaking?
The finest directors are undoubtedly driven by emotion, but to some extent, one also needs a clear vision and a practical approach to one's work. To make the most out of one's budget while starting a production, either as an indie filmmaker or working with a film house like Video Production Company in Mumbai, it is crucial to instill a certain level of discipline in oneself.
What are the requirements for enrolling in filmmaking programs at prestigious universities?
Undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students have slightly different eligibility requirements. Only a few prestigious colleges provide specialized filmmaking courses at the undergraduate level. However, there are many varied alternatives for Master's degrees. Leading Indian colleges typically organize entrance tests for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Before beginning a career in filmmaking, it is typically a good idea to pursue a Bachelor's in Media to broaden one's perspective. For the majority of undergraduate admissions, candidates must have completed their 10+2 with the required minimum grades.
For Master's programmes, the strength of an applicant's application (for international schools) or written test (typically for national institutes) is usually what counts, combined with meeting the minimal requirements for a Bachelor's degree. However, it is always crucial to conduct independent research and consider which programme or university might be the best fit for you.
What abilities do you develop as you progress through the programme and become a filmmaker?
Above all things, understanding how to make movies helps people improve their ability to think creatively and collaborate with others. There is no other medium that can help us unleash our inner storyteller and collaborate with people around us like film. Of course, one also learns the technical side of the trade, like the numerous camera tricks, script writing, production, casting, and funding. It also, in many ways, develops a very strong sense of aesthetics and leadership.
Are online scriptwriting, cinematography, and videography courses sufficient to prepare you as a filmmaker?
Today's world is incredibly linked and constantly breaking down barriers. Since I believe that education is ageless, limitless, and seamless, I am thrilled by the variety of creative venues that are open to people who are passionate about learning the craft. Additionally, I believe that since the epidemic, online education has become incredibly important, and students are finding their true selves through learning from instructors who are located thousands of miles away. People's minds are developing their unique perspectives thanks to it, and I believe the field is about to enter an exciting new phase.
What is the current state of the Indian film industry? What are some of the most important career options after the course?
With the proliferation of independent films and the demise of autonomy brought about by OTTs, now is the ideal time for young movie buffs worldwide to come into the industry. There are many creative production companies like Video Production Company in Mumbai, and the work environment is very dynamic. There are chances in a variety of fields, including production, director, scripting, cinematography, acting, production design, and editing, among others.
What advice do you have for people who want to pursue a career in filmmaking?
My two pieces of advice are that you have good observation skills and the ability to transform one's most profound findings into a magnificent cinematic reel. One may always master the craft, but what every filmmaker must naturally understand is how to go above and beyond, asking oneself the deeper questions, to create one's own true brand in this cutthroat industry.
The Best Positions in the Film Industry are:
1. Script Writer.
Because only a strong story can produce a box office hit, there are many employment opportunities for screenwriters and scriptwriters in the film industry. The writer of the script either uses someone else's story or creates one entirely from scratch after doing the necessary background research. He keeps refining a script until the director is happy with one of its many iterations. He also describes how to acquire the ideal shot, including camera angles, lighting, and shots. If you enjoy telling stories, it is worthwhile to pursue a career in filmmaking.
2. Filmmaker.
The cinematographer has full responsibility for conveying the true tone of the scene and eventually the plot. The right lighting, camera position, effects, etc., are the cinematographer's responsibility and help to convey the realistic feel of the action. It is a creative position in the filmmaking process and frequently collaborates with nearly every unit member, including the director, writer, cameraman, production team, etc. It provides a fantastic employment opportunity in the film industry because it plays a crucial part in production.
3.Director of Casting
Being a casting director is, in fact, a crucial job in the movie business. It is not at all simple to choose the person who can do the role justice after viewing a variety of reels, going through auditions, reviewing a portfolio, and evaluating hundreds or thousands of options. A casting director's responsibility is to comprehend the script and the character in question and select the ideal candidate to fulfill the role to the best of their ability. It is a career in the film industry worth investigating, despite all the difficulties one would encounter.
4. Assistant Director
Your journey as a successful director begins with the position of assistant director (AD). An AD in the film industry is responsible for keeping track of the actor call sheets, facilitating meetings with the production crew, and maintaining the locations and sets throughout a film shoot. Additionally, he manages the post-production training for filmmakers as well as the marketing materials for movie promotions. In India, every acclaimed director first worked as an AD.
5. Director
The director is the one who turns a vision into a genuine movie that touches the audience's soul. Almost all decisions are made by the director, who also guides the movie to success. The director stays involved in the pre-production, production, and post-production phases of a movie to ensure that everything goes according to plan. This is undoubtedly the best career option in the film industry.
