The debate of what young India wants, especially from films, became clear at the Children's International Film Festival.
Five children-made films was screened on the second day of the fest and all of them had a message. From green causes to the lessons they learn during their everyday drive to school, the children used the language of movies with maturity to send across their message.
“We did not see the point in just writing a story and making a movie out of it. So we picked something that matters now - the need to save our environment and manage resources," says Syed Muztaba from Kolkata, who was part of a group that made 'Our Bit'.
Ananya Sen, from Delhi, made a movie 'Give me a Chance' on a boy who left an impact on her. “Every day I used to notice the son of ishtriwallah and would think how he would never have opportunities like us," she says.
One of the most impactful stories came from a victim of bullying, in the movie titled 'Breaking the Silence'.
“Not many people understand that after being bullied, kids also undergo post-traumatic stress disorder. I intentionally chose to keep an open ending. The question, if the victim jumps off the building or not, is left to interpretation," says Siddhanth Joshi.
There was a thriller made as well, but with a purpose. “I made a thriller mystery film to tackle superstition. So I had to hire professional cameras and camera people, although I did the editing myself as I was used to the softwares. On the whole I spent Rs 14,000 on the film, but I had my school funding me," says Ajinkya H.
