Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) hosted a captivating masterclass titled “Living Movies: Filmmaking and the Creative Life” featuring acclaimed filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra and renowned music director Shantanu Moitra. Held at the Kala Academy, Panjim, the session turned into a mesmerizing blend of music, storytelling, and creative insights, leaving the audience inspired and entertained.
The session began on a soulful note with Moitra performing his iconic song “Piyu Bole Piya Bole” from Parineeta. Chopra spontaneously joined in, setting the tone for a vibrant and unconventional masterclass. Breaking away from traditional formats, Chopra abandoned the comfort of his sofa, opting instead to engage the audience directly with his infectious energy and candid anecdotes.
Recounting his early struggles, Chopra narrated a poignant story about his dream to assist legendary filmmaker Vijay Anand. Despite waiting months for a promised letter of confirmation, it never arrived. Reflecting on his debut film, Khamosh, Chopra shared the challenges of marketing the movie and repaying the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). “When the phone didn’t ring with good news, I decided to become my own distributor,” he recalled, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Moitra, echoing Chopra’s tenacity, spoke about their collaboration during Parineeta. “While there was doubt about whether the music would resonate with audiences, Vidhu’s unwavering faith in me defined him. Even before knowing the film’s outcome, he signed me for three more ventures. That’s the kind of trust he places in people,” Moitra said.
Chopra shed light on his creative philosophy, emphasizing the principles of Entertain, Educate, and Elevate. “I only make films I believe in. Understanding business may be important, but my focus remains on creating art that speaks to me,” he stated. He also offered a unique perspective on collaboration, remarking, “I don’t trust a director; I trust a human being.”
Moitra humorously described Chopra as a tough taskmaster, adding, “Vinod doesn’t always know where he wants to go, but he certainly knows where he doesn’t want to stand. It’s both challenging and inspiring to work with him.”
The session highlighted the duo’s shared philosophy of creating meaningful cinema that balances entertainment with depth. Chopra’s wit and Moitra’s music made for an engaging experience, perfectly encapsulating their mantra: “Don’t be a bore; only entertain.”
As the audience departed, they carried with them a renewed appreciation for the artistry, perseverance, and humanity that define Chopra and Moitra’s cinematic journeys. The masterclass not only celebrated their illustrious careers but also served as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling in film.