There was a time when one walked on to a film set teeming with men and the only women seen would be hairdressers and costume designers apart from the heroines.
But times have changed. Mollywood is seeing the rise of women technicians in various departments like direction, script and lyric writing, cinematography and even production, with high work ethics delivering quality work on par with the men. Though in terms of numbers, the percentage of women in the industry is still minuscule, their very presence in a male-dominated industry like Mollywood is an encouraging sign.
Actor Siju Rose has made a transition from the front of the camera to behind it by becoming an assistant director for the Hindi remake of 'Traffic' directed by Rajesh Pillai. Talking about this change of track, she says, “I consider it as a learning process. I always wanted to get into direction and personally I believe that every actor should work behind the camera, which will help them understand camera angles, frames, etc. Being an assistant director is no cake walk and is a tough job compared to acting!”
Siju says that being a woman among hundreds of men is a tough act too. Though Rajesh did teach her, most of her work involved picking up things first hand. “I had to co-ordinate with the artistes and since I have been living in Mumbai, language was never a problem. The people here are very professional including the actors.” Siju quips that she will be totally involved until the wrap-up party of 'Traffic', as the new role she has taken up means a lot to her.
The long working hours and the unpredictable timings do not bother these women who are very passionate about their work; it is chasing their passion that matters.
Scriptwriting has largely been male dominated, with veterans still ruling the roost. Winds of change have begun to blow here too with women stepping in. Deepthi Sylaja has written the script for the upcoming film 'Second Innings', a film based on a cricketer.
