To become a good short-filmmaker, apart from just having the right equipment and actors, one also needs to know his work well. Arun Pawar spent seven long years to gain expertise. Despite being passionate about making films since Class X, Arun instead of giving it a shot with whatever knowledge and resources he had, worked as a visual effects supervisor to enhance his skills. The 27-year-old has worked on graphics for 40 films including Bommarillu and Sainikudu.
After honing his skills, he quit his job and released Aditi, his first short-film in November 2013. The film features singer Geetha Madhuri, actor Ananda Krishna Nandu, aspiring actor Abhishek Maharshi and well-known anchor Anasuya in a guest role. “Working with them has helped me as the roles are very close to their real life,” Arun says. The story line is about how the lead actors meet each other through a song.
Though quitting a high paying job with a good position was risky, he prioritised his passion. He has now taken up freelancing. And there was no room for regret as the film, before it was released, was bought by iQlik movies for `1. 5 lakh.
It also hleped Arun clinch an offer to direct a Telugu feature film, Close Friends which will release by May in as many as 70 theaters. The movie is a comedy-thriller and is a remake of Malyalam Feature Film Nee Ko Njaa Cha (I Will Kill You And Kill Myself). “Making short-film for me was a step towards getting into mainstream cinema and I have achieved it,” he beams.
Like other short-filmmakers, Arun also faced his share of hurdles. “Getting the right location for the shoot without any hassles and bringing in professionalism in the minds of the crew members was a tough task for me. As it was a short-film, they were taking liberty of coming in late for the shoot. That effected my shooting schedule,” he shares.
What is surprising is that budget was never a constraint. He had his savings in place for the same. “And even in general, one doesn’t face problem with budget as a short-film can be shot even with a smart phone. This trend is being followed in Tamil industry,” he informs.
Short-film is also a platform to make yourself visible in the industry. “The producers and directors who wish to make films on low budget also watch short-films and pick talents,” Arun opines.