Science is everywhere, we just have to recognize it - Varun Mehta

The power of storytelling never lies in the medium but instead the way you present it. You should be passionate enough to tell your story with such conviction that it touches your heart right in the place. No matter how simple or ordinary it is. The power lies in the concept of the storytelling. Continuing this trend is Internationally Acclaimed Award winning animation filmmaker Varun Mehta whose film 'A Dream that defined Science' was recently screened and honored at the 7th National Science Film Festival held at Kolkata from 14th February to 18th February. Ace Bollywood Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar graced the event as Chief Guest. The Science festival featured shortlisted award winning films from all over the country. The idea of this festival was to promote science in terms of filmmaking. Mehta's film was screened on 17th of February with a delightful response and now he aims to hold the premiere of his film on an online platform. Mehta is known for his critically animated award winning shorts 'The Unknown World' 'Save Trees' and 'The Wonder Stone'. He has also won numerous International and National awards for his short films also. We contacted Varun for a brief Interview to know about his achievements and future plans.

















*Congratulations on this new achievement of yours. Please elaborate more about this film and the Science film festival you attended?

* The festival was organized by 'Vigyan Prasar' which is a division of government that promotes science through filmmaking. The festival was held at Birla Museum, Kolkata from 14th of Feb to 18th of Feb. The festival featured films from all over the world discussing issues related to health, environment, nature and of course Science. Our film 'A Dream that defined Science' was shortlisted in category D. It was screened on 17th of February at the Festival. 

* How was your experience regarding the whole film fest?
* It was exciting and engaging. Film Festivals are always encouraging for artists and budding filmmakers. Not only they bring amazing films around the country but also some great filmmakers on the board. I got to meet amazing talents that participated in this event. The zeal, the environment, the energy was of course, an amazing experience.

*Despite so much talent in the country, there isn't much support for film festivals? Why is that?
* It's related with the general interest. Film Festivals target niche audience with people having great taste for films and Art. It's not everyone's cup of tea. But yes, the problem also lies in the acceptance. Film Festivals can only grow if our government starts taking initiatives just like Vigyan Prasar is doing. Also, festivals regarding all sort of films should be encouraged. A change begins from home and it takes time.

*Tell us what 'A Dream that defined Science' is about?
* Its a short film about few students who are stressed about science tests they are going to appear the next day. They find the subject extremely difficult and suffocating. They don't understand it and hence panicking that they would fail the tests. Since they have been studying since morning they decide to take a nap. As luck would have it, they experience a similar dream where an Imaginary character comes to life and tell the kids the Importance of Science and its uniqueness. The kids understand that Science is about knowledge rather than blind learning. They all perform well in the tests the next day thanking the character that enriched their tiny minds with the usefulness of the subject.

* How do you see 'Science' as a tool in filmmaking?
* Science is everywhere not just in films. But since we are talking about filmmaking, science is itself a part. The camera, lighting, graphics all technical part we see around is Science. Its just we need to recognize more of Science in films. There are hardly films made based on it and I think these film festivals are great a medium to promote & enlighten Science in terms of filmmaking in the best way possible.

*Animation in India targets mostly children. Also you have made a lot of films targeting kids. Does the genre of kid films excite you in general.
* Its not like that. I have been a part of corporate filmmaking where I have made short films, documentaries, ads etc with adults. It's just the productions that target children find more appreciation and exposure. Also working with children in particular is quite difficult, whatever looks easy on screen has a backstory behind it. I am comfortable with all genres of filmmaking. In fact, I would love to make a suspense thriller if I come across a great script.

*Regarding the Film Festivals, what does an average filmmaker usually expect - awards, exposure or networking?
* I think all of them - they all are equally Important. Having your film shortlisted is a big thing. You travel through the country with pride with the feeling of having your film screened in between prestigious people. Awards boost a filmmaker's morale and helps him to do better. And networking of course brings a lot of further opportunities. But personally if you ask me, having your film shortlisted and screened is the biggest reward because at the end you have already competed with so many films that came on board and made it into the finals. Rest all depends on your dedication and conviction. 

*Can you please elaborate about your future projects?
* There is a lot in pipeline. I am currently working on an environmental short. After that I shall start working on an animated short film that is based on a love story. It is likely to be released this year. Also we are having a digital online premiere for 'A Dream that defined Science' soon. 

We at youthbuzz team wishes Varun with the best of luck !