Vishnu Prasad is a renowned filmmaker who has made waves with his exceptional storytelling and unique cinematic vision. His work includes Party for One, a short absurdist mood piece exploring the difficulties and anxieties of new social interactions; Red Soil, an animated short film contrasting American and Indian cultures during the pandemic; Finding People, an experimental narrative following three women whose paths intersect during springtime; and Here For Now, a narrative short about a young woman confronting her gay best friend’s destructive path. Additionally, Vishnu has filmed two music videos for singer-songwriter Forrest Hill titled “Crack in the Land of the Free” and “Barrier to Love,” offering unique visual interpretations of the songs.

This interview delves deep into Vishnu’s creative process, influences, and aspirations. Let’s get started!

Q: Your work has captivated audiences around the world. Can you share some insights into your creative process?

Vishnu: My creative process often starts with a concept or an idea that resonates with me deeply. I then delve into extensive research, exploring various themes and narratives that surround the core idea. Once I have a solid foundation, I begin crafting the screenplay, focusing on character development and plot structure. Collaboration with my team plays a crucial role in refining the script and translating it into a visual medium.

Q: Your films often incorporate elements of magical realism. What draws you to this genre, and how do you balance the fantastical with the realistic?

Vishnu: Magical realism allows me to explore the blurred lines between reality and imagination. I find it fascinating to introduce fantastical elements into everyday situations, as it adds a sense of wonder and enchantment. Balancing the fantastical with what’s real is a delicate process. I strive to create a seamless integration of these elements by grounding them in believable characters and authentic emotions. This balance helps the audience connect with the story on a deeper level.

Q: Could you share your aspirations for the future? What can we expect from you in the coming years?

Vishnu: In the coming years, I hope to continue pushing the boundaries of storytelling and exploring new avenues of filmmaking. I aspire to collaborate with talented artists from different parts of the world, bringing together diverse perspectives to create impactful narratives. I am interested in adaptations of lesser-known literary works from the Global South and oft-ignored, but crucial, pre-colonial histories. My aim is to create films that entertain, provoke thought, and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Q: What drives your filmmaking practice?

Vishnu: My permanent undertaking as a filmmaker is to explore the human condition. I believe the best way to understand humanity is by studying human beings themselves. It’s an ongoing pursuit, and while I suspect there may not be a single answer, it leads to clearer questions. As human beings, we must embrace this challenge and delve into the depths of what it means to be human.

Q: Lastly, what lessons have you learned as a filmmaker, and is there any advice you can offer other filmmakers?

Vishnu: The project is paramount — set aside ego and work collaboratively. Second-guess ideas and surprise the audience. Take care of yourself physically and mentally as a screenwriter. Directing requires adaptability and resilience. Find your artistic identity through the convergence of cultures. Embrace humanity.

Vishnu Prasad is a renowned filmmaker who has captivated audiences worldwide with his exceptional storytelling and unique cinematic vision. His films explore diverse themes, balancing magical realism with authentic emotions and believable characters. He aspires to push the boundaries of storytelling and collaborate with global artists, creating impactful narratives that entertain and leave a lasting impression. As we can see from this interview, his filmmaking practice is driven by a profound exploration of the human condition, emphasizing collaboration, surprising the audience, adaptability, and finding artistic identity through cultural convergence. With passion and dedication, Vishnu continues to make a significant mark on the creative world.