Is This Indian Director Redefining Cinema at Venice Without Sugar Coating?

Anuparna Roy's recent win of the Orizzonti Award at the Venice Film Festival marks a significant milestone in the world of independent cinema, particularly for women from underrepresented backgrounds. Her debut film, Songs of Forgotten Trees, not only showcases her unique storytelling but also highlights the importance of authenticity in filmmaking, drawing from her personal experiences.

Last updated: 29 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Anuparna Roy is the first Indian director to win the Orizzonti Award at the Venice Film Festival.
• Her film, Songs of Forgotten Trees, explores themes of marginality and survival among women in Mumbai.
• Roy's filmmaking style is characterised by a deliberate observational technique, avoiding traditional cinematic rules.
• The film has personal significance for Roy, inspired by her own life and the lives of those around her.
• Roy advocates for social issues through her art, exemplified by her choice of attire at the awards ceremony.

An Unconventional Journey to Filmmaking

Anuparna Roy's rise in the film industry is remarkable, particularly considering her grassroots origins. Growing up in a tribal village in West Bengal's Purulia district, Roy's early life was a stark contrast to the elite cultural milieu typically associated with Indian cinema. Unlike celebrated Bengali directors such as Satyajit Ray or Ritwik Ghatak, Roy's path to filmmaking was far less conventional.

After completing her college education, Roy initially took up a job at a call centre, which she viewed as a means of achieving economic stability. However, this job also opened the door to her passion for cinema. A serendipitous encounter with film students in Delhi ignited her interest, prompting her to save money diligently to produce her first short film, Run to the River.

Creating Songs of Forgotten Trees

Roy's foray into filmmaking culminated in her debut feature, Songs of Forgotten Trees, which tells the poignant story of two women from disparate backgrounds navigating life in Mumbai. The film centers on Thooya, an aspiring actress who works as an escort, and Swetha, a fellow migrant with a call centre job. Their initial living arrangement evolves into a deep emotional connection, exploring themes of same-sex desire and the challenges faced by women in urban settings.

Critics have lauded Roy's ability to capture the emotional depth of her characters, with The Hollywood Reporter describing the film as "an anguished portrait of what it takes for women to survive." Roy's unique approach to filmmaking, characterised by long takes and observational style, lends authenticity to the narrative.

Innovative Filmmaking Techniques

Formally untrained in the craft, Roy made a conscious decision to eschew traditional cinematic techniques, opting instead for a more organic representation of her characters' lives. By using continuous takes and filming in her own apartment, she created an intimate and immersive environment that allowed the characters' emotional landscapes to unfold naturally.

The Personal Meets the Political

Roy's work is deeply intertwined with her personal experiences. The characters in Songs of Forgotten Trees are inspired by the lives of her grandmother and her stepdaughter, showcasing a platonic yet intimate relationship. Additionally, the character Jhumpa is drawn from the life of Roy's childhood friend, who faced societal pressures to marry young.

In her own words, Roy states, "The personal is political." She highlights how her upbringing amidst poverty and economic instability informs her storytelling. The challenges faced by women in her narrative echo broader societal issues, making her work not only relatable but also politically charged.

Making a Statement at Venice

Roy's acceptance of the Orizzonti Award was not just a personal victory; it was also an opportunity to voice her support for global issues. On stage, she wore a traditional handloom saree that symbolised solidarity with the children of Gaza, blending Palestinian motifs with Bengali artistry. While this choice garnered mixed reactions on social media, Roy remains steadfast in her commitment to using her platform for advocacy.

She articulated her stance clearly: "I am going to use my voice to talk about everything that makes us uncomfortable." This dedication to addressing social issues through her films is a testament to her belief in the power of cinema as a tool for change.

Future Endeavours

Looking ahead, Roy is already working on scripts for a sequel and potentially a prequel to Songs of Forgotten Trees. However, she remains resolute about her artistic vision, stating that she will not create commercially driven films. "I can't make sugar-coated cinema," she asserts. "I have to make films that represent the world we live in, even if they upset people."

Roy's journey is a source of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers, particularly women and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Her story underscores the importance of resilience, authenticity, and the courage to speak out against societal norms.

FAQs

What is the Orizzonti Award?

The Orizzonti Award is presented at the Venice Film Festival, recognising new voices in independent cinema. It celebrates innovative storytelling and unique perspectives in filmmaking.

What themes does Songs of Forgotten Trees explore?

Songs of Forgotten Trees explores themes of marginality, survival, and same-sex desire among women in Mumbai, highlighting their struggles and intimate relationships.

What is Anuparna Roy's filmmaking style?

Roy's filmmaking style is characterised by a deliberate observational technique, favouring continuous takes and avoiding traditional cinematic rules to create an authentic representation of her characters’ lives.

How does Roy's background influence her work?

Roy's upbringing in a tribal village amidst poverty and economic instability informs her storytelling, allowing her to create relatable narratives that address broader societal issues.

What are Roy's future projects?

Roy is currently working on scripts for a sequel and potentially a prequel to Songs of Forgotten Trees, while maintaining her commitment to creating socially relevant cinema.

As Anuparna Roy forges her path in the film industry, her commitment to authenticity and social commentary will undoubtedly inspire future generations of filmmakers. How will her bold storytelling influence the representation of women in cinema moving forward? #AnuparnaRoy #SongsOfForgottenTrees #IndependentCinema