Faraz Ali's Short Film 'Obur': A Unique Perspective on Kashmir
Exploring Life in Kashmir Through Film
Award-winning filmmaker Faraz Ali's short film 'Obur' offers a fresh perspective on life in Kashmir, focusing on a young boy's experiences rather than military or militant themes. Shot entirely on an iPhone, the film has garnered significant acclaim, winning four awards at the Critics’ Choice Awards for categories including best film, direction, cinematography, and writing. Ali emphasizes that storytelling was his primary focus throughout the film's creation, aiming to highlight the everyday challenges faced by ordinary people.
Originally from Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj, Ali found himself drawn to the complexities of Kashmir, often depicted in extremes of beauty or violence. He notes, 'Life exists beyond the shadow of the gun. People enjoy life here; we even played cricket on the streets, and there is a sense of hope.' His previous feature, 'Shoebox,' explored his hometown, which he feels has transformed into a place he can no longer fully relate to, describing Allahabad as 'a fragment of my memory.'
The Cinematic Representation of Cities
Ali believes that the portrayal of a city can vary greatly depending on the filmmaker's perspective. He cites examples like the contrasting depictions of Bombay in Ram Gopal Varma's films versus 'The Lunchbox.' Despite these differences, he observes that the struggles faced by people across various cities, including those in Kashmir, are often similar.
He emphasizes that while facts are important, the emotional truth behind them is what endures. 'The sky is blue is a fact, but I might see sorrow in it, while another filmmaker might find joy,' he explains. For Ali, it's not just about seeing but feeling, asserting that one's intuition often guides them to the truth.
Innovative Filmmaking Techniques
Choosing to film with a mobile phone was a strategic decision for Ali, allowing his crew to navigate challenging terrains without the burden of heavy equipment. He notes that many of the actors were comfortable in front of the camera, as they were used to creating content on their phones. Ali's background in advertising has not dictated his filmmaking style; instead, he believes in maintaining his artistic voice while understanding the economic landscape of India, which differs significantly from Western cultures that often provide grants for filmmakers.
He adheres to the principle of balancing artistic integrity with financial sustainability, quipping, 'Why should a filmmaker suffer in poverty?'
Future Aspirations and Ethical Filmmaking
Looking ahead, Ali plans to create another film set in Kashmir, this time aiming for a comedic tone. However, he is cautious about the expectations surrounding his work, prioritizing enjoyment and a positive atmosphere on set. He believes that the process of filmmaking should be ethical, stating that the means are just as crucial as the end result.
For aspiring filmmakers from smaller towns, Ali offers a supportive environment rather than specific advice, ensuring that the magic of cinema remains intact. While awards are not his primary motivation, he acknowledges their importance in gaining visibility and inspiring others, particularly those with stories to tell from places like Kashmir.
Curiosity as a Driving Force
Ultimately, Ali's curiosity fuels his creative journey. Quoting Walt Disney, he reflects, 'We keep moving forward, opening new doors and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.' With this mindset, Ali is set to continue exploring new avenues in filmmaking.