Local film scoops up international award
While his script has not yet been optioned for a TV series, the local filmmaker is already working on his next big project.
WESTVILLE filmmaker, Veron Vadivelu’s short film, Untitled for Now, has made waves on a global scale and even snapped up an award at the Uruvatti International Film Festival.
The short film was selected to be showcased in three international film festivals, namely in Canada, the UK and India. It was judged by panels of qualified critics for their respected awards and the local project was the only South African film selected.
The Highway Mail caught up with the multi-talented producer to delve into the local film industry and uncover what is next on his to-do list.
The last time we spoke, the final cut was not yet done. When was the project completed?
Untitled For Now was designed and structured to function as two projects. The first being a short film with an independent narrative and message and the second being as a trailer for a series that I have written and created, highlighting and showcasing all the themes, tones, and aesthetics of the series.
What has the reception been like from audiences?
Locally, from the people who have seen the film, the reception has been tremendously positive with people craving to see more. However, from people within the local industry, the reception and support has been lackluster, which has been very disappointing and heart-breaking. Internationally, the reception has been overwhelmingly amazing with the short film winning an award for ‘Best Debut Filmmaker for Short Film’.
The film has received a lot of praise from international audiences, which has been very satisfying and, in many ways, expected. My goal to showcase authentic and original local projects for global audiences.
When you were notified the film had won an award, how did you feel?
Given the geographical locations, I was notified at about 3am to 4am and it was very satisfying. My intention for the film was achieved and I was able to represent South Africa honourably.
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Where to from here?
Unfortunately, I was unable to get the series picked up and produced. Within our local industry, getting a series made is very difficult. However, making a feature film is much easier so I pivoted to making a film. I developed and wrote an original feature film that I’m currently working on getting funding and financing for to produce and direct.
Are you still hoping it will be turned into a full feature on Netflix?
I would love to work with Netflix as I am a huge fan of their platform. The good thing about the industry now is that there are many streaming platforms available, so where an opportunity arises I will grab onto it with both arms. I will find a way to get the series made, it’s just a matter of time. For now, I am fully focussed on getting the feature film I have written made.
How do your fellow cast members and crew feel about the final cut of the film?
They were all impressed but, given the nature of the business, they had to quickly revert their attention to other projects to work on to earn an income in these uncertain times.
“I will be not be waivered in my pursuit to showcase South African Indians in the manner and the volume in which we should be shown. I am hoping to make a change for the better to allow talent the opportunity and platform to be nurtured and showcased. It’s incumbent upon the new generation to innovate and progress and not regress our people. I will make sure this is achieved by all means,” said a determined Veron.
Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting
