An Interview With A Filmmaker, Archana S. Iyer, Who Didn't Limit Herself

They say, “Don’t use too many words to say few things rather use few words to say lot of things.” The same is of short films, a genre of films that packs imagination and story-telling into 10 minutes, can have powerful impact to make a change in the culture.

That seems to be the case with Archana Iyer's film, “Homemaker” – a film about the priceless bond between a mother and daughter which has been selected to be screened at Tirana International Film Festival, Albania.

Without further ado, I’d like to present Archana’s thoughts on how we can listen to our inner voice and cherish that and have fun along the way.

So, what inspire you to make "Homemaker?"

Archana: I had read a short story "three letters" in my school days. It was so touching, I thought of adapting it into a modern day film based on e-mails!

How did you find producers?

Archana: I would call myself really lucky. In my case, the producers found me. As there were not many projects happening in my office, my bosses came to me with a proposal of making a short film as a learning exercise! And voila, I get myself a film!

What are the challenges you've faced while making, "Homemaker?"

Archana: I didn’t have the budget as I’m a first time film-maker. Then lots of things went wrong – my friend was supposed to shoot it for me, we had a fall-out and in the last moment he dropped out. But thank God for that because Varun Sud, who eventually shot it, is a boon. He did wonders to my film. Most importantly, it's always better to work with people who are enthusiastic than who want to do it as a favor for you. Basically, everything that went wrong with the film, eventually went right!

What's the most exciting part you’ve enjoyed while making, "Homemaker?"

Archana: The shoot. It was quite hectic but I had an amazing cast and crew, and we had a ball.

What do you want people to get out of the film?

Archana: Not to take things and people for granted and everything can’t be measured monetarily!

What are the pro's and con's of making short film in your opinion?

Archana: More pros than cons, it's a great platform for young filmmakers with no budget to bring forward their ideas. But now, with the changing time, short films are a big market at the festival circles too.

Why is it still hard for women directors, in Bollywood?

Archana: It's all in the mind. Women themselves sometimes tend to limit themselves, once they stop it, people would listen!

You do stay alone in Mumbai, being miles away from your home, any challenge for that? If yes, how do you cope with that?

Archana: Lots of challenges— financial, emotional and mental. But thanks to my friends who always make me feel "Mumbai Meri Jaan!"

What's the single most part you are excited about, being an independent woman?

Archana: My freedom – freedom to choose; freedom to decide and freedom to take responsibility for the decisions!

So, what's the mantra Miss Archana lives her life with?

Archana: You get, not what you desire, but what you deserve!

Thanks, Archana, for the wonderful conversation and for so generously sharing with our readers!