A moment from Kaustav’s short film Ekaki

Kaustav Debnath

AGE: 21

COLLEGE: Third-year, Information Technology, Heritage Institute of Technology

CLAIM TO FAME: His first short film, Ekaki, was screened on November 16 at Abanindra Sabhagriha as part of the 19th Calcutta International Film Festival.

FIRST TAKE: When the registration dates for this year’s film festival were announced, Kaustav decided to make a short film. Though a fan of makers like Francis Ford Coppola and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, this was nothing like anything he had ever done before! Two months went in rigorous rehearsals, after which the first attempt to shoot was hamstrung by a technical crisis. With the deadline fast approaching, Kaustav successfully shot his film with the help of a DSLR.

IN FOCUS: Ambiguously titled Ekaki, the 26-minute film revolves around three college students. The trio meet up — and smoke up — and this companionship puts things into perspective and helps them figure out the reason for their loneliness.

NEXT SHOT: Kaustav has teamed up with four of his classmates from the institute and they are currently working on a script with an eye on Mumbai Film Festival 2014. He is also a part of Heritage Institute’s drama club that puts up performances across Calcutta. Eventually, Kaustav wants to make a career in cinema, acting being his passion, and Marlon Brando, Johnny Depp and Amitabh Bachchan his screen idols.

THE RIGHT BALANCE: “Honestly, it is difficult to balance academics and filmmaking, but you cannot neglect either,” admits Kaustav. “Since I know I have to do both, I work very hard and give my best,” he added.

FAMILY MATTERS: Initially Kaustav’s father wanted him to stick to engineering but after recognising his son’s passion for the celluloid, he gave him his unconditional support and is very proud of him.

SUCCESS MANTRA: “Things are difficult for an amateur filmmaker. At times I get so frustrated with the proceedings,” says the young cinema enthusiast. But Kaustav has two magic words — “perseverance” and “optimism” — to see him through.

Arnab Paul