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Capturing the real angle
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Vignesh's video film "Achu Pizhai" focuses on the problems of the transgender community
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MOVING WORK Vignesh
Young and raring to go, that's Vignesh, the director and producer of "Achu Pizhai", a video film on transgender. He has made a couple of short films that were screened at various film festivals, besides a documentary on the service projects of YWCA. Keen on making video films, Vignesh received the "Best Video Production Award" in 2004 for his first music video "Immortals" from the Indian Broadcaster's Forum. Vignesh, who just completed Visual Communication from Loyola College, talks about his experiences of making "Achu Pizhai".
How did "Achu Pizhai" evolve?
I believe filmmakers have a social responsibility. I always wanted to do something about transgender people. When I did research on them as part of my course I discovered facts that were interesting. I was also quite moved by their condition. When I decided to make a film on them, I wanted to cast real people as I felt all they needed was social acceptance. That is what I have tried to focus in the film. The cinematography is by Srinivas and the music by Raj Baskar. Justin Roy has edited the film.
How have you handled the subject?
This film is a fiction depicting true incidents from the lives of these people. I wanted it to be as realistic as possible. Born into a peasant's family Chandran has a loving father to support him and a caring sister. He scores high marks and gets into a medical college. Chandran feels a physical and biological change in his body that turns psychological and reflects in his likes and dislikes. His sexuality started worrying him. The problem he faces is told in an interesting way.
What have you tried to achieve through the film?
The film focuses on their rituals and practices. The objective is to sensitise the public and to show the transgender community in a positive light. The Central Board of Film Certification has cleared the film.
How has been the response?
The response of the transgender community was overwhelming. I had a special screening for a few of them. They just enjoyed watching it and identified themselves with the characters. They told me that I had portrayed their plight and captured their emotions perfectly. This I consider a success.
How did you raise funds for making the film?
Though I approached many NGOs, I got no funds. My parents agreed to produce it. The film has cost me about four lakh rupees.
What are your plans for the future?
I am making documentaries. I have an editing suite, `Manas', which gives me my bread. I wish to carve a niche for myself in the media. I want to learn more about film making before entering into the industry in a big way.
S.R. ASHOK KUMAR
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