Most of us view films with careless ease, but Siddharth Bhavnani infuses the whole movie experience with passion. A student of Journalism at Christ College, with an absorbing interest in all dimensions of cinema, he has more than a passing interest in films and filmmaking. In a heart to heart talk, he takes an in depth look at "what lies beneath" the magic of dream merchants!

What are the key aspects that go into judging a film?
There are a lot of different criteria for judging any movie; one of the primary aspects is the message that it seeks to convey. A good script is the life blood of a movie. A director with his vision and superlative use of technology can have a huge impact on the final product. Light, sound, camera work, all lend a polish that run-of-the-mill movies lack. The importance of dedicated actors and their performances cannot be overemphasized. Also, it is natural that any artist (actor/director/writer) is judged by their track record. Lastly, filmmaking is a creative enterprise, which requires fine-tuning and teamwork.

Could you elaborate on some of these techniques, which makes film viewing a more fruitful experience for all of us?
Well, there are thought processes, which conceive every single frame we see. If we try and pay more attention we can perceive a lot more about the movie. Each scene becomes more meaningful when viewed intelligently. Every once in a while ask yourself - 'why'? Interacting and mulling over the various facets can make cinema more worthwhile and appealing. Observe the use of the camera, lighting, sound techniques…whether they help add to the narrative of the film is important too. However, one must not make the mistake of over-analysing films. By being overcritical one runs the risk of killing the enjoyment a movie gives.

Are there various levels of film appreciation, i.e. would a professional film critic differ from the layman in his mode of analysing and perceiving a given movie?
Its very difficult to categorise film viewing as it is a subjective experience to a great extent, but a layman would look at the film at face value and may not catch certain undertones. A film critic on the other hand is better equipped to see the larger picture. The bottom line is that the more movies you watch, the more you learn about the cinema as a medium in all its various hues.

What do the recent technological innovations have in store for the future of the industry?
It throws up an enormous array of possibilities, which is very exciting for all filmmakers. The use of computers and CGI (computer generated images), superior sound and all other forms of cutting edge technology is positive. It will translate into film makers having less boundaries as far as creativity goes. Technology, in the form of home entertainment and theatres is going to create phenomenal avenues. DVD's promise to make films more interactive is a welcome boost to film makers, film enthusiasts and films.

How do these technological innovations affect creativity?
Innovations of any kind help filmmakers transcend boundaries regarding creativity. With the constant development of technology, audiences always have something new to look forward to. Experimentation with techniques can lead to better quality and thus it's a win-win situation all the way for the discerning viewer.

How will the introduction of film appreciation classes right from school level increase audience awareness?
That would be a great option if it were an elective for people genuinely interested in the field. For a lot us a little guidance and access to the right kind of movies is what we need to develop our latent skills. Children are powerhouses of enthusiasm and this when channeled wisely can yield rich results. Films can also perhaps give their imagination and creativity a fillip.

What would constitute an ideal film appreciation course?
Courses that talk about the various aspects of filmmaking and help us view a film as a seamless entity would be ideal. Also, a course which dealt with an in-depth look at classics and classic filmmakers, would be a great help. Such courses offer a forum for screening of critically acclaimed movies followed by an enlightening group discussion. Film courses are also places where the avid film buff gets to watch obscure offbeat productions from various genres.

How much do you think films influence us as a society, and our individual psyche?
Films definitely do affect each one of us. There is a phase when most of our attitudes are affected by the reel life drama that we witness. I feel that a part of our inspiration could be attributed to our on screen idols. Certain unforgettable legendary characters influence our mental make-up. Though the downside of this could be that at times certain films offend certain sections of society and inflame emotions.

Could you give the film enthusiasts of Bangalore information on film clubs and their activities?
I'm aware of 'The Bangalore Film Society' and the 'Suchitra Film Society' to name two, who conduct short-term courses. They also conduct screenings for members and have regular discussions regarding them. They have courses, which deal with individual aspects of the process of filmmaking and experienced faculty too.

How did you get interested in films and film appreciation? What prompted your foray into this field?
It started with my love for the stage. My main interest lay in the techniques of acting and the finer aspects involved. Later, I got influenced by films and wondered at the way different ideas could be communicated. Then, I slowly got curious about the way films were made and one thing led to another. Right now I write for a college paper and it gives me immense joy to share my views on film.

Regarding Indian films, what are its highlights and do you think its coming of age?
The Indian films of yesteryears were true vintage quality; the Bachchans and Kapoors dominated them. Good filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Guru Dutt have left us a heritage we are rightfully proud of. In regional cinema also there is no dearth of talent with brilliant Kannada, Tamil and Malayalam pictures. Though it could be said that the present day movies have scripts which lack substance. The trend to make Indian films in English is interesting and offers a lot of potential as it allows us to focus on totally different issues and caters to a different audience altogether. All in all, there is a definite shift in the attitude of the audience, an increase in their creative tolerance.

We wish Siddharth the very best in the pursuit of his passion for films. Young hopefuls in this field can feel free to contact him at siddenver@yahoo.com, for pointers, discussions regarding movies and anything under the sun which is reel-y interesting!

|