The Indian film industry is the largest in the world in terms of number of films, and Tamil film industry is the third biggest regional film industry in India. Besides, there has been an upsurge of many talented, educated and techno-savvy youngsters who are making heads turn with their novel and experimental efforts and cinema today is not what it used to be decades back. There was a time when the educated did not prefer getting into the celluloid world but now, things have changed and yes, for the better.
Despite these facts, there are not many institutes that offer professional training and guidance to aspiring film-makers and wannabe actors. This has been much talked about by people like Kamal Hassan and now, there is good news for those that shared similar views.
Ace cinematographer and film-maker Balu Mahendra is all geared up to start an institute for films at Chennai and this, he said, will offer courses in acting, direction and cinematography. Balu Mahendra, a product of the Poona film institute himself, has been toying with the idea as many acquaintances had been asking him to start an institute for films. Now, he is all set to start this school and what's better, he will himself teach direction and cinematography for students of the institute!
Gopali of the National School of Drama (NSD) will head the acting department and guest lectures will be presented by experienced hands from the south Indian film industry.
This institute, named 'Balu Mahendra Cinema Pattarai' will be formally inaugurated on 7 September.
So all ye creative minds, unite! For, you will be learning the art from the master himself!