September 30, 2024

Niloufar Ahmadi Nabi: Breaking barriers in filmmaking

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What are the most formidable challenges inherent to the profession of filmmaking?

As a female filmmaker, I face typical challenges and societal bias. My voice and leadership are often ignored, and when I manage my work seriously, my femininity is questioned. It’s disheartening, but I’m determined to break these barriers and change the narrative in filmmaking and beyond.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Could you elaborate on the wellspring of your creative inspiration for this particular short film?

This short film stems from a personal memory—the day I was supposed to travel to Tehran, but at the airport, I decided to cancel my trip.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hide and Seek | Poster
Karolina Belka

Could you elucidate on the central thematic underpinning of your film?

The theme of my film revolves around superstition. Superstitions take the place of reality when, in order to continue living and accept their mistakes, people find no other path but to believe in them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How do you navigate the task of strategizing cost-effective promotional efforts when operating within a constrained budget?

No, I save my monthly earnings and use everything I have to make films. It takes a long time as I lack financial support. Each scene was made with saved money, and I had to save again for the next one. Many friends helped me for free, purely out of their love for the art.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In today's dynamic marketplace, how pivotal do you consider the role of film distribution?

It’s incredibly crucial. To attract investors, I first need visibility. Without effective distribution, even the best films can go unnoticed. It’s essential for ensuring that the hard work, creativity, and message behind a film reach a wider audience and create future opportunities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For individuals contemplating the path of self-distribution, what counsel or insights can you offer?

I think it’s a futile effort, to be honest. Let’s be real.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In your estimation, what level of significance do short films hold for aspiring filmmakers seeking to embark on a career in directing?

Short films are the best platform for trial and error—a space where you can express yourself and your world as you see it, without any major concerns. For me, they primarily serve as a learning experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reflecting on your professional journey thus far, could you share an instance of the most formidable challenge you encountered and how you surmounted it?

First, the financial challenges. Second, my lack of familiarity with filmmaking techniques, which can be overcome through trial and error.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What, in your view, are the critical factors that contribute to the creation of a cinematic masterpiece?

No one knows for sure. But perhaps it’s a unique moment in time, a collective memory, or global circumstances that allow everyone to relate to the film. Expressing a shared pain or concern in a way that’s distinct and resonates with people worldwide could be key.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you could revisit the inception of your career, are there any aspects or decisions you would choose to alter in hindsight?

I make films about issues that I’m deeply mentally engaged with at the moment. This honesty helps create a connection with the audience. It’s possible that what you’re thinking about right now is something someone else is dealing with as well.

KAAFFILM is an international network of distribution, production, and promotion of short films. #Kaaffilm

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