Samskara cinematographer heaps praise on Natesh Hegde’s Vagachipani

Actor and director Natesh Hegde’s latest directorial Vagachipani, was screened at the Sydney Film Festival and has drawn rave reviews. Amongst the audience was Australian director and cinematographer Tom Cowan.

Cowan is also the cinematographer of the acclaimed Kannada film Samskara starring Girish Karnad that was directed by Pattabhirama Reddy. Natesh who was happy with the reception fetched by his film which stars Malayalam actor Dileep Pothan, tells us that the highlight of his trip is the text from Cowan following the screening of his film. “Dear Natesh, I was so pleased to be able to be at the Sydney Film Festival screening of your movie Tiger's Pond.

It's an excellent production, very affecting with images that linger in my mind. Your way of having the people be - and not pushing them into situations for the sake of 'story' made the village riveting to me. I am not against 'story', in fact I think that getting to a wide audience, a story helps them. But, as I said, your movie Tiger's Pond is so good without obvious dramatic manipulation.

It has a special power because of your choices: the imagery, editing, performances' and theme. The theme of the tragedy of village life can be hackneyed if it is not deeply felt as you depiction is. Lesley and I both loved the movie and hope to see your next one. Best wishes, Tom,” reads the message. “Noted Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi had also come for the screening and it made my day,” sums up Natesh.