Vignesh (Platinum Film Winner 2014), on his journey at IFP

Your craziest/cherished/Best moment during the course of filmmaking.

The whole 50 hours was fun, but to point out few moments.

1. I got a story in two hours after the theme was announced, but skipped it, we were discussing on other stories till the next day morning and finally settled with the story which we thought first.
2. We made a small mono acting concept for the climax which should be for a minute but after we shot the portion it was 8 mins long, then our awesome editor cut the whole part to a minute.
3. We started uploading by 6.30, it took a while and everyone were sitting before the computer and waiting for it to get uploaded it was almost 9 when it showed 100%. then we started celebrating….:)

How Challenging it was to make a film in 50 Hours?

The first thing I loved about IFP was that we had to make a movie in 50 hours, because deadlines can teach great disciplines, especially for artists, we never get satisfied so we keep working on it to make it perfect, but when there is a deadline we have to stop at one point, getting a group of people to work is one of the toughest thing. But as a director you will know your capacity only when you are under pressure. If you can get the best output from actors, cinematographers, composers, within the given time and money, it is the best way to learn filmmaking.

 What was your reaction on winning the title?

I actually lost hope when my film hadn't been anounced till the 3rd place, but when it was announced  as the Platinum Award winner, I did not believe it for few seconds, but then I realized that all my team’s effort had been recognized. When I walked up to the stage, hearing everyone cheering , I got to know what encouragement could do to you. It brought a change, it made me want to see much more moments like that, Thank you IFP for being one of the biggest support in building my confidence.

Your advice/tips for this year participants.

I don't know if am qualified to give advice, but I'll share few things I learned through the experience.

1. There is no perfect story, go with your instincts, if you like a story just put it in paper and start shooting. if you wait for the best story you are not gonna get it.
2. It is all about understanding and adjusting with your team, everybody can't see your vision, so try to explain what you want, and if their idea is better, please accept because "ego is the only requirement to destroy  any relationship”
3. Be quick in decision making, you ain't got a lot of time to think over.
4. Take power naps when possible, it will increase productivity.
5. Don't do everything yourself. directing is all about getting things done.
6. Gather a like minded team.

Here's his Brilliant Film


So Are you ready for the Battle!