- Thursday, December 19, 2024
The noted filmmaker also stressed on the need for more diversity in selection committees at film festivals, which, according to her, would help create a more inclusive environment
By: India Weekly
PAYAL KAPADIA, the noted filmmaker who won the Gran Prix award at Cannes for her debut feature “All We Imagine as Light”, lamented the underrepresentation of women in the film industry.
During an “In conversation” session at the 29th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday (18), she emphasised that women continue to face significant barriers in the field and should have greater access to opportunities.
“Not just women, the voices of the marginalised sections are not getting enough attention. As India is a diverse country, these people should have access to filmmaking,” Kapadia stated.
She also stressed the need for more diversity in selection committees at film festivals, which, according to her, would help create a more inclusive environment in the industry.
Kapadia, who was honoured with the ‘Spirit of Cinema Award’ by IFFK 2024, reflected on her experience of making “All We Imagine as Light”, noting that the film was a product of a collaborative effort by the women actors involved. “It has been a learning process for me also and that makes the role of director very easy,” she said.
Regarding the issue of gender and filmmaking, Kapadia was asked whether women filmmakers were better equipped to handle women’s issues.
She responded, “All humans have male and female aspects in them,” adding that male directors can also connect with feminine themes from their own perspective.
Kapadia spoke about the themes in her films, including her earlier documentaries, which often explored the unresolved issues surrounding men whom women reject. “I am often confused and bothered by the knawing, clawing men we don’t want in our lives,” she said.
Kapadia expressed her gratitude for receiving the Spirit of Cinema Award, calling it an honour. She also praised the festival audience in Kerala, saying they are particularly engaged in meaningful discussions.
On a separate note, she shared her excitement about her film receiving two Golden Globe nominations, mentioning that it helped attract more attention and viewers to the movie through its international distributors.
