Interaction with a Filmmaker, classes 11 and 12

On 28 October, 2013 which was the International Day of Animation, students of classes XI and XII attended a workshop by filmmaker Tavishi Alagh. The intention was to introduce the children to non-conventional career choices, such as film-making. Ms. Alagh demonstrated the various opportunities available to students in the latter.

Ms. Alagh is a noted filmmaker. She has worked with directors like Shekhar Kapur and Deepa Mehta. She runs the production house Tea with Jam and Bread and is known for making a variety of documentaries. Her most recent endeavour, "Bollywood Crossings, which is a story about Indians living in the US and their love for Indian cinema was exhibited at the famous Lincoln Centre in New York.

Ms. Alagh discussed the various fields and sub-fields that are parts of the film-making industry. Whilst, directing and producing a film is one thing, the process involves a variety of other technical jobs that are performed by different experts from related fields. Another way to get into the industry is by becoming a film critique or by specialising in other kinds of film literature.

Ms. Alagh showed us a few clippings of her works. These demonstrated various alternate productions to mainstream cinema. She then asked the students to show her some of their work and provided them with some constructive feedback.

Ms. Tavishi then clarified student-queries regarding the industry. She told them about various courses they could consider. The students also asked her a range of questions, including technical ones like What are the various models of camera that a student can use at his level to shoot a documentary? and How does one promote one's film and make sure people watch it without being influenced by the web of profit-making producers?

The students were excited by the prospect of pursuing a career in the field. Ms. Tavishi opened their eyes to the diverse vistas such opportunities hold. The workshop proved to be a beneficial and learning experience for us, students. We look forward to similar workshops in the future.

Filed by Ishan Mehandru, XII C.