The man behind the cam

Photo: ATL Aakash

One of the leading TV directors of our times, Giasuddin Selim has been dazzling the audience with his craftsmanship throughout his career. Although he is best known for his work in television, he has also gained success on the silver screen, winning the National Film Award for his work on “Monpura”. The man behind the cam recently spoke to The Daily Star aboiut his humming career:

Tell us about the plans for your next film “Kajol Rekha”.

Selim: Hopefully the shooting for “Kajol Rekha” will begin this year. This is a huge project, so I'm taking my time. There is a possibility that this might be a joint venture.

Have you found your Kajal Rekha?

Selim: Not yet, but hopefully soon.

What about your new drama that is set to go on air soon?

Selim: I've directed a new 24 -episode serial titled “Roud”. It was shot in Feni. Channel 24 will be airing it soon.

What's the story about?

Selim: “Roud” is based on events that occur at a district town; that's why it was shot in Feni. The protagonist struggles to become a farmer; it is a story about coming out in the sunlight instead of hiding in the shadows.

Why does the number your dramas seem to be on the decline?

Selim: I'm more inclined to make films than TV dramas.

Is there a particular reason?

Selim: There are many reasons, most of which I cannot talk about. Even if I state the troubles, the hurdles are unlikely to change. We don't have any unity. Who will solve the problem? The first priority should be for the artistes, crew, directors, playwrights and the channel authorities to unite.

It's said that the budget for making TV plays is going downhill. Why is that?

Selim: This lies totally in the hands of the advertisers. The commercials they air on TV channels are made on a slim budget, unprecedented anywhere else in the world. The channels are busy fighting a financial race, but they are unwilling to compete for quality. So, they are not concerned about the shrinking budget.

Why did you choose to become a director?

Selim: I was involved with theatre from my university days. I was also a part of Desh Natok. I became a director to make a living. My bigger dreams led me to the seat of a movie director.

To what extent do you think films can help in the progress of a nation?

Selim: A lot. Take Zahir Raihan's “Jibon Theke Neya” as an example; it played a huge role in our independence. The film was a cultural revolution for us. Plenty of changes can be brought about by films but they have to be of topnotch quality.