Films, Documentaries Can Become Catalysts for Change
Peter Christopher, a filmmaker, says short films and documentaries can change mindsets by tackling social ills
Peter Christopher says short films and documentaries can tackle social problems and issues.
NSoJ BUREAU
Short films and documentaries are powerful tools in tackling social ills and changing mindsets, believes filmmaker Peter Christopher.
He told students of the National School of Journalism (NSoJ) that such films can highlight issues such as femal infanticide, illegal sand mining at riverbanks and even, human trafficking.
Founder of Revelation Bay Productions, Mr Christopher, wears many hats. He has worked in TV, broadcast and print media, produces socially relevant documentary films and, is also a photographer. He showed students two short films dealing with female infanticide and human trafficking. Mr. Christopher stressed that it is essential to raise awareness about such issues. “However while making such films, it is important for you, the filmmaker to build a rapport with and develop a sense of trust with your subjects, the people you focus on in your films. Only then will they open up and share their stories,” he explained.
His first film on female infanticide follows the story of a woman who goes against community norms to raise her daughters and give them the best upbringing that she can afford. “Even today the birth of a girl child is considered a curse in certain parts of the country, while many believe a male child is a blessing,” Mr Christopher pointed out. He cited a news report on how in July 2019, there were 216 male babies born in Uttarakhand, but not a single female baby. “That this continues to be a reality today tell us that we as a society need to change our thought- process in order to change the world,” he observed.
The second film focused on child trafficking. “My students made the film juxtaposing a harsh reality (how girls are trafficked) with interpretive dance movements,” he said. The number of trafficking crimes in India is increasing alarmingly and it is crucial to raise awareness, he added. This film ended with a stark message: ‘Every 8 minutes a child goes missing in India. Stop child trafficking.‘
Mr Christopher’s talk is part of a series of guest lectures held at NSOJ. The institute aims to help students develop into well-rounded professionals by giving them the opportunity to explore genres and interact with industry professionals.
