Pakistani Film maker Hamza Bangash started his career when he was just 19-years-old as a theatre writer and director. Since then the young, ambitious and passionate Pakistani has moved on to directing award winning short films. His film Badal was recently selected to be part of the Short Film Corner program at Cannes Film Festival.
We caught up with Bangash to find out more about Badal, Karachi and what’s next for the promising young film maker.
What is the basic message behind your film?
HB: Badal is the story of three wealthy Karachi teenagers meeting the harsh reality of their impending adulthood. It’s a coming of age story that explores youth culture, drugs, and religion- and how these elements fight against each other in a city as complex as Karachi. It doesn’t try and victimize or make heroes out of its’ female protaganists. These are strong women, who make choices that might not always work- but at least it’s their choice. The film was recently selected to be part of the Short Film Corner program at Cannes Film Festival- and I couldn’t be more thrilled.
What do you feel is your greatest achievment?
HB: A short play I wrote and directed called ‘RISE.’ It was staged at the P.A.C.C when I was 18 and it was my first experience realizing that yeah, maybe art can make a difference. The play was about a teenagers’ response to her brother dying in the Marriott bomb blasts.
Your Smile for Karachi series has made waves internationally – how did the project come about?
HB: Smile for Karachi is a three-part video series I developed this past summer in Karachi. The videos strive to emphasize everyday individuals who are making a difference in the community.
So far you have stuck to short films. Why?
HB: As a novice filmmaker, making shorts is a great stepping stone to your first feature. I’m making them because at the point I am in my career, short films allow me to stretch my creative wings- and help me grow into the role I hope to one day fulfil.
What are your plans for the future?
HB: I’m going to be a director for both stage and screen. As a director, my goal is to make films and theatre that bridge the divide that is constantly perpetuated by mainstream media about the huge differences between East and West.