Iram Parveen Bilal, a Pakistani film maker showcases her first feature ‘Josh’ at the film bazaar.She talks about her experiences
Pakistani filmmaker Iram Parveen Bilal’s movie ‘Josh’ first‘World Premiered’ at the Mumbai Film Festival last month and was a highlight ofthe viewing rooms at the Film Bazaar. Eagerly awaiting the public’s response,she seemed excited at the prospect of finding distribution for her film at the FilmBazaar. She says, “This is a greatavenue to meet European agents, which is what I wanted to do. I am stillawaiting festival acceptances and am looking for distribution. So I hope I geta good response at the viewing room where my movie is one of the recommendedfilms.”
Iram did not have an easy time filming Josh as thedisturbances in Pakistan during the production of the movie proved hazardous.However, with a lot of hard work and luck on her side, she managed to make themovie without any disasters or anyone getting hurt. Although the production wasa challenge it was well worth it as the response she received for her movie wastremendous. ‘Josh ‘is the story of a privileged woman in Karachi, whose lifechanges the moment her nanny disappears. The film explores the Pakistani’s ever-present reigning feudalism whichis defined by the country’s youth. Her film explores the internal debates theyouth struggle with and their unity.
When asked about her experiences at the Film Bazaar, shesays, “This bazaar is really well organised. It very easy to meet people andreceive the positive support that is much needed in this industry. It is arefreshing change of pace for me.”
Although Iram has made several short films, ‘Josh’ is herfirst feature film. She says, “There areno production houses in Pakistan for film as there is no infrastructure for it.I have to look elsewhere for private funding. Financing is tough to findanywhere, even in a place like Los Angeles. It’s easier in India and bazaarslike these really help.”
While the NFDC are trying to help promote independent films,its bazaars like these that seem to be the first point of contact for a lot offilm makers, be it in distribution or financing. It remains to be seen if morecan be done to promote movies and features and bring these talents to the fore.
