KOZHIKODE: The techies in Kerala have one more feather to add in their cap. India's first open source movie concept is getting ready under Chamba Swathanthra Movie Project, started in Kerala.
Open source films (also known as open content films and free content films) are films which are produced and distributed using free and open source software methodologies. Under this concept, the movie and its sources are made publicly available via an online download or by other means that are either free or with a cost that covers only reasonable reproduction expenses. About 20 people have already registered to film an open source animation movie in the website www.chambaproject.in and are working to make possible the open source movement in the Indian movie sector.
Zadeek Umar, an open source movie activist and project partner, said that he was attracted to the movement through online discussions happened three months ago with other activists in the field.
"Our team consists of graphic artists, animation experts, software engineers and other related support people for the project. Though the project is still in its infancy, a lot of people in technological world have shown interest to join the movement," he said.
Zadeek says though the concept originated from Malayalees, a handful of foreigners are also working on the project. "The project is open to anyone who has interest in the movement and since it is open source, we think, we could get global support. Already, experts from New Zealand, Australia and the US are in touch with us," he said.
"We have to develop the script and the character. The plan is to make a five-minute documentary using Blender Open Source Software and inspire other people in the field to work for the cause," he said. The inspiration for the Chamba to make open source movies came from other open source movies, released. "We follow blender foundation model of naming project after a fruit such as Orange, Peach and Durian," he said.
"Why should anyone be denied knowledge and culture just because he cannot pay, especially when you do not have any additional costs? This is the basic principle of the Chamba project," he explained.