Recently SikhNet asked Angad Singh about his experience with making films and how it has affected his life.
SN: What do you love about film?
A: I love the unique intimacy filmmaking shares with storytelling. It helps one realize that some of the most effective ways of communication lie within personal experiences and our ability as people to connect with those stories.
SN: Was your film for the SikhNet film festival the first one you made?
A: Yes! In fact, submitting "One Light" to SikhNet in 2007 was a life changer as it helped me discover a passion that has definitely played a huge role in my life. From being able to travel the US for various screening and film festivals, to shooting other films abroad, I am so glad I had the platform to begin my creative journey via Sikhnet's Online Film Festival!
SN: Tell me about your experiences making film.
A: My experiences have been quite fantastic. Most recently, I spent 7 weeks in Punjab filming a documentary on the sustainability crisis going on there. From meeting hundreds of new people who each were inspiring and amazing in their own ways, to being able to eat authentic Punjabi food everyday, I'd say everything about the process of filmmaking has been rewarding.
SN: What kind of reaction/feedback have your films received?
A: My first film, One Light, was well received by its audience. Everyone was so supportive and encouraged me to keep going. If it weren't for all of the support I had received, I may not have decided to continue making videos and films!
SN: Did participating in the FF influence your life in any way?
A: Absolutely. I'd venture to guess that being a youth filmmaker and activist is what helped me get into an Ivy League School, and I am currently interning at MSNBC. If I hadn't participated in the festival, I would have never seen myself becoming interesting in broadcast journalism!
SN: Have you watched other films from the festival? Did any of them in particular inspire you?
A: I am inspired when I see films by the youth. It is awesome to see that there are many others who are out there expressing themselves and their creativity through the medium of film.
The theme for this years festival is 'UnCommon Courage'
Now is the time to start making your film!