indieactivity: How did you get into directing? How would you describe your style?
JB Ghuman (JBG): I guess I’ve been sort of a “Storyteller” my whole life. As a pup I used to line up my action figures for these long sagas, then when done have them freeze in place. Only to pick up where they left off to continue the story. On an official level, I was an installation artist living in NYC though I got scouted to be an actor. While on sets, my “installation artist” mindset was exposed to cameras, lighting, etc. So I ended up jumping behind the camera, fusing my installation art side of my brain with my storyteller side of my brain. Which brought me to the present. My style: I’d say is a fusion of hyper-fantasy meets cerebral storytelling meets dark humor.
Who is “paSSive poWers” for? Who do you think would enjoy it the most?
JB Ghuman (JBG): I mean, I’d love for it to be for anyone and everyone. Though if I had to narrow it down, I’d say it’ll probably resonate the most with humans who tend to look deeper into existence. But again, given my ambitions, I’d hope it’s a cool experience for anyone.
How long did it take to shoot the entire film?
JB Ghuman (JBG): Oye… took a beat for sure. Filmed it in 2021, then had to build a system strong enough to handle 8K 3D 360 raw footage. Then curate the 4D elements around it. So about 2.5 years.
How long was the post-production process?
JB Ghuman (JBG): Post was extensive. From physical layers of shooting to 3D elements to an experience that encases both, it was pretty tiresome but well worth it once looking back.
The film had a lot of talent working behind the scenes as DPs, sound designers, composers, etc. Why is diversity important both in front of and behind the camera?
JB Ghuman (JBG): This was a project that had just my DP filming and myself so given the scale it wasn’t as diverse beyond us. Though I’m bi-racial… in case that counts. Daddy is from India, momma is USA born and raised.
What are your goals with “paSSive poWers”?
JB Ghuman (JBG): Honestly, to just inspire the viewer to go deep within their own self-analysis. Think a bit what it means to be “themselves” when all the upper layers are removed. Then give that same perspective to others.
What’s next for you? What are you working on right now?
JB Ghuman (JBG): I’ve got an animated pilot that I’m currently shopping around for a series deal, a cool kids book in the works, an animated short film I just finished & another VR film that’s taken years to film. About to jump into Post-Production now
What would you recommend to a new director at the beginning of his/ her journey? Any special courses, workshops, helpful books they can read?
JB Ghuman (JBG): Hmm… well I can only refer another to the best of my own experience which is generally speaking a lot of long nights and days gridning + perpetual hopeful thinking. It’s hard out there for anyone in any position. So def roll up your sleeves, try to smirk past the setbacks which will def come and celebrate any small wins. It’s a journey and to even be able to create should be the main goal.
Who is your favorite director? Why?
JB Ghuman (JBG): It’s a toss up between Tim Burton and Baz Luhrmann. Both are storytellers who curated their own way and rose to a level of awesome global wide reach with their stories. I’m a bit of an oddball who has his own way of telling stories like them so… to even get to a fraction of their height would bring me to tears.
What advice would you give directors around the world?
JB Ghuman (JBG): To please please pretty please… make sure you use any privilege whether that be backing, amazing crew, access or even pure luck… to tell a story that helps our species move upwards. Even if it’s dark, sad or horrific… There’s always a chance for each of us filmmakers to helm a ship that no matter its tone, leaves the viewer with a bit more insight than when they started.
Tell us what you think of the interview with JB Ghuman. What do you think of it? What ideas did you get? Do you have any suggestions? Or did it help you? Let’s have your comments below and/or on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
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