September 30, 2024

Rami Abbas: Balancing vision with a shoestring budget

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

I think that the foundation of any film is its budget. For independent filmmakers, securing funding for films is complicated. We face the constant struggle of balancing our vision with a shoestring budget.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

The world in general, has experienced direct and indirect impacts that have left their mark on its shape. So, this reality had to be reflected in the artistic work. We could not close our eyes to what was happening, especially as we were forced to be both witnesses and victims at the same time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hide and Seek | Poster
Karolina Belka

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

It´s about many children, the greatest victims of wars, wherever these wars may occur. Children are often the most affected in the equation of victory or defeat because they inhabit a world far removed from the dualistic world of adults: fighter and casualty, victor and vanquished, etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

With the limited funds we’ve had, we’ve been careful to distribute them wisely, reaching out to professional friends for support. I’ve had to take on various roles myself to save money, cover all the necessary stages, and invest more time and effort to bring it to life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Determining how and where it reaches audiences is key to a movie’s success, affecting exposure and revenue. Distributors manage release timing, marketing, and international markets. Without strong distribution, even great films may struggle to find their audience or financial success.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

For self-distribution, key points include knowing your target audience and reaching them through social media or festivals, which can connect you with viewers and distributors. Create a marketing strategy, set a budget, explore digital platforms, and stay patient, persistent, and flexible throughout

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

For aspiring directors, short films are essential stepping stones, offering creative opportunities and freedom to experiment with their vision. A successful short film serves as a calling card, opening doors to festivals, industry connections, and potential funding for larger projects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Completing my first short film was challenging due to a limited budget and the lack of a production company. I handled most responsibilities myself, and while remote collaboration with the team posed difficulties, it ultimately provided a unique experience and led to the film’s successful completion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

A director’s clear vision is vital for crafting a cinematic masterpiece. This vision includes narrative structure, emotional engagement, and selecting actors who can add depth. Additionally, addressing cultural or social issues can provoke meaningful dialogue and enhance the film’s impact.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

I believe I am still at the early stages of my artistic career, and there is much I need to learn. Additionally, I have several previously written projects that I need to review and complete.

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

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