Today we’d like to introduce you to Abhilash.
Hi Abhilash, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My story began in a small town in India, where the magic of cinema captivated me from a young age. Back then, accessing movies wasn’t as simple as streaming today, so weekends glued to the national television became cherished rituals. It was during this time that an article in a local animation magazine illuminated the world of visual effects. The idea of contributing to the very films I loved so much sparked an immediate passion.
However, pursuing a career in the film industry wasn’t a conventional path in my community. Convincing my family that VFX was a legitimate profession proved to be a significant hurdle. Yet, my deep-seated love for movies and a healthy dose of stubbornness eventually won them over, allowing me to embark on my chosen path.
I honed my skills by working with some of the leading visual effects companies in India, gaining invaluable experience and insights into the intricacies of post-production. Fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit, I eventually took a leap of faith and established my own VFX studio. This venture proved incredibly rewarding. Our talented team had the privilege of contributing visual effects to a diverse range of popular films, including In Time, Vishwaroopam, Lootera, and Jal. A particularly proud moment arrived in 2014 when our work on the film Jal was recognized with the prestigious National Film Award from the President of India. This accolade served as a powerful validation of our dedication and talent.
Never one to rest on past achievements, I continued to seek new avenues for creative expression within the industry. This led me to co-produce two independent films, offering a different perspective on the filmmaking process.
Then, the unexpected pause brought by the COVID-19 pandemic provided a unique opportunity for reflection. The break from the demanding pace of post-production allowed me to reconsider my creative inclinations. I found myself increasingly drawn to the art of visual storytelling through cinematography. This newfound passion led me to pursue higher studies in cinematography at UCLA.
Completing my course at UCLA marked a significant transition, bringing me to the vibrant and dynamic landscape of Los Angeles. I am currently working as a freelance cinematographer, embracing the exciting challenges and opportunities this new chapter presents. Living and working in LA has also been an enriching experience, connecting me with talented individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures across the globe.
Looking ahead, my ultimate aspiration remains to bring my own stories to life by directing my own films. The journey from a small-town movie enthusiast to a working cinematographer in Hollywood has been an incredible adventure, and I am eager to see what the future holds.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not! The path of an indie VFX artist and entrepreneur has been anything but smooth. Wearing multiple hats was the norm – from tirelessly pitching for projects to meticulously overseeing their execution and final delivery. A constant challenge was identifying and retaining talented artists who could consistently deliver high-quality work within often tight deadlines. Juggling both the creative vision and the managerial responsibilities demanded a significant amount of energy and focus.
Similarly, my experience co-producing two indie films, Nirmal Anand ki Puppy and Danny Goes Aum, presented its own set of hurdles. Without the pull of big-name stars, securing distribution and finding the right platform to reach audiences proved to be a considerable undertaking. Thankfully, Nirmal Anand ki Puppy eventually found its home on Prime Video, and we’re eagerly awaiting the release of Danny Goes Aum. Both films, directed by the talented indie filmmaker Sandeep Mohan, represent the culmination of a lot of hard work and perseverance in navigating the complexities of independent filmmaking.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a freelance cinematographer based here in Los Angeles, I bring a unique blend of technical expertise and artistic vision to visual storytelling. My journey, rooted in the world of visual effects and independent filmmaking, has shaped a distinctive approach to crafting compelling imagery.
While I’m proficient across various aspects of cinematography, I particularly specialize in creating evocative moods and enhancing narrative through lighting and camera movement. My background in VFX gives me a keen understanding of how the on-set work will integrate with post-production, allowing for a more seamless and efficient workflow. I’m known for my collaborative spirit, my ability to quickly adapt to different shooting environments, and my dedication to understanding and amplifying the director’s vision.
One of the achievements I’m most proud of is the National Film Award we received for the VFX work on the movie Jal. It was a testament to the hard work and creativity of our entire team. Beyond that, I find immense satisfaction in seeing a story come to life through the lens, knowing that my contribution has helped to emotionally connect with the audience.
What I believe sets me apart is the unusual trajectory of my career. Having experienced the filmmaking process from the perspectives of a VFX artist, a studio owner, and a producer gives me a holistic understanding of the craft. This multifaceted background allows me to approach cinematography with a broader perspective, anticipating challenges and finding creative solutions that serve the overall narrative. My cross-cultural experiences, from my early life in India to my current work in the diverse landscape of Los Angeles, also enrich my visual language and my ability to connect with stories from different backgrounds.
How do you define success?
For me, success isn’t solely about accolades or financial gains, although those can certainly be validating milestones. At its core, I define success by the ability to consistently create meaningful work that resonates with others and fulfills my own creative aspirations.
It’s about the impact a project has – whether it moves an audience, sparks a conversation, or simply offers a moment of genuine connection. Success also lies in the continuous growth and learning process. Are you pushing your boundaries? Are you evolving your craft? Are you staying curious and open to new ideas?
Furthermore, success involves building strong, collaborative relationships. Filmmaking is inherently a team effort, and the ability to work effectively and respectfully with others, fostering a positive and creative environment, is crucial.
Finally, there’s a personal element to success. It’s about finding a sense of purpose and fulfillment in what you do.
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