FILMMAKING

Durba Sahay makes films that, in her own words, ‘mirror life in all its complexities’. Her short films have earned much acclaim on the international festival circuit, and she is now working on a full-length feature, Aavartan, which will be released next y

o you experience more creative freedom when you are directing the films you have yourself written?

A.

As a writer, I give words to my thoughts, and by being both writer and director I can achieve the freedom and passion of an artist through my imagination, emotions, thoughts and writings. My ideas get a platform and the expression of those ideas is better coordinated with the execution.

Q. You are also an actor. So how did the shift to direction happen? What really got you interested in the art of filmmaking? A.

Yes, I did start my career as an actor but the urge and passion to make films turned me towards direction. The strong urge to be an independent artist who is able to exercise the kind of creative freedom a director has is so close to my heart.

One can say that directing is like painting on the canvas where one gets to pour one’s heart out. It also involves emotional and creative satisfaction.

Q. You have helmed several short films. What do you like about this form? What are the advantages it has over a full-length feature film?

A.

Today’s mantra is KISS, i.e. Keep it Short and Sweet. The shorter it is, the sweeter it gets and the better it works. Short films have a long-lasting effect on the audience. The audience gets the message in a short span of time and it is more impactful.

Q. You have worked in different capacities, including that of a playwright, actor, director, scriptwriter and production designer. Which role do you enjoy the most and why? A.

I think after having worked in all the various capacities, I enjoy directing the most. And being a producer gives me a huge sense of fulfillment. But every role is significant and I feel I have a complete bouquet.

Q. What is your creative process like when you are writing, editing and directing, all at the same time? A.

It is all about spontaneity for me. It is so smooth that at times I even lose track of time and forget about the number of hours I have spent during the process. My need to express myself creatively is the most important thing to me.

Q. You are soon going to come out with a full-length film,

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