Dip Patel- Film 'First Light' | ManualMagazines.com

(Published: 2024/04/08 at 9:56 pm)

Edition Eighty- Week Eighty:

Written by: Mercedes Barreto

What began the cinematic venture for your most recent and upcoming film project, ‘First Light’? What started it all?

“Arriving in LA was already an exhilarating experience, but receiving this incredible opportunity from such remarkable individuals elevated my excitement to new heights. The film delves into the lives of a couple residing in Los Angeles, inhabiting a beautiful home, embodying the essence of sharing and caring. Both characters are immersed in their respective professions, yet the true essence of the film lies in its portrayal of the dynamics within their relationship.

Navigating through the intricacies of a couple’s conflict, the film demanded an authenticity that mirrored real-life dynamics. Director Dipen’s vision breathed life into each frame, while Tanay Shah’s mastery of gaffing further enhanced the visual storytelling. Working alongside Dipen and Tanay was an absolute pleasure, and I would leap at the opportunity to collaborate with them again in the future. Their passion and creativity infused every aspect of the project, leaving an indelible mark on my experience in LA.”

How was the dynamic on set, and how could you describe the sheer and evident dedication by cast and crew, day in and day out?

“We encountered numerous handheld shoots throughout the film, demanding an exceptional level of dedication and hard work to execute. Holding a camera on the shoulder, weighing approximately 10 lbs, for multiple takes of the same scene from various angles is no small feat. It stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment I observed from our cinematographer.

Additionally, our gaffer faced significant challenges in managing the lighting setup, particularly during handheld shots utilizing a dolly. With the camera constantly in motion, maintaining consistent lighting across the entire set required meticulous attention to detail. I was thoroughly impressed by the crew’s ability to consistently exceed expectations, contributing to the creation of this visually stunning film.”

If you could depict your character analysis journey, how would you describe your role in the production and the work it required?

“As soon as I delved into the script, I felt a distinct connection to the character. It was an intriguing sensation because I recognized that the role wasn’t inherently me, but rather a persona that championed the writer’s perspective, occasionally even advocating for what might seem wrong to others to prove a point.

In the weeks leading up to filming, I immersed myself in preparation for the role. I dedicated countless hours to crafting the character’s backstory, honing their dialect, perfecting their gait, capturing their mannerisms, and understanding their physicality. My home became a laboratory for experimentation as I delved into the depths of the character’s psyche, often engaging in seemingly eccentric activities in pursuit of authenticity.”

Were there any notable moments on set? Why and how so?

“During a scene where John is toasting bread and blending a smoothie, the kitchen was being set up for filming. While practicing my movements and positioning for the camera, I accidentally cut my finger while adjusting the grinder cup. Despite hours of trying to stop the bleeding with kitchen towels, it persisted. Eventually, the director provided me with a makeshift bandage, which added a natural, authentic touch to the scene and became an on-set improvisation for my character.

Another memorable moment on set occurred during a scene where Sweeny had to throw a toothbrush out of the bathroom at a specific point for camera setup. We attempted this shot around 20 times, as it was a long dolly shot. Each take involved careful calculation of the probability of the toothbrush landing on the mark. The process became a lighthearted challenge, adding a playful dynamic to the filming experience.”

Where do you envision this film project shortly? And what will measure the overall success of the film? How so?

“Having seen the film footage during post-production, I’m filled with confidence and excitement about our upcoming plans for submission to major festivals in New York, Los Angeles, and India. The story we’ve depicted is deeply touching, infused with elements of dark comedy that resonate profoundly with audiences. There’s a special kind of magic when comedy intertwines with tragedy, creating a unique and memorable viewing experience.

I wholeheartedly believe that our film has reached exceptional heights, captured the essence of our vision and showcased the talent and dedication of everyone involved. With its powerful storytelling and nuanced performances, I’m confident that it will resonate with audiences worldwide.”

Where can we learn more about this production, ‘First Light’, and overall, why should we do so? Why should Do we anticipate seeing it in theatres someday soon?

“If you’re interested in learning more about our film, “First Film,” I suggest checking online for updates on film festivals and screenings. Everything should be available soon, giving you a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes process of making this movie.

I have to say, every person on our production team is incredibly talented and experienced. They know the ins and outs of filmmaking like the back of their hand. From start to finish, they’ve worked tirelessly to bring our vision to life. If you’re curious about what it takes to make a great film, you’ll find no better example than the dedicated individuals behind “First Film.”

Anything to add here?

“Make sure not to miss the chance to attend a screening of our film if it’s playing nearby. It’s an experience you won’t want to pass up. If you can’t make it to a physical screening, keep an eye out for online streaming options. Trust me, this film offers a truly cinematic experience that’s been missing from the big screen for quite some time. And as for the clashes between the couple, well, you’ll just have to watch to find out more.”