Balancing creativity & COMMERCIALIZATION
Nour Sarhan: Filmmaker
Introduction
The evening began with an introduction of the guest, Nour, a local filmmaker known for his unique storytelling abilities. Born in Egypt and later relocating to Dubai, Nour hails from an artistic family; his mother is an artist, and his father a writer. This rich artistic environment fueled Nour's passion for filmmaking and storytelling, inspired by his father’s remarkable storytelling skills.
Art and Inspiration
The discussion soon transitioned to the broader topic of art and inspiration. Nour shared his perspective on the subjectivity of art, emphasizing how it serves as a window to diverse viewpoints and allows audiences to understand the artist's inner world. He credited his family’s artistic background as a significant influence on his creative journey.
Art in Egypt and the UAE
Comparing the art scenes in Egypt and the UAE, Nour highlighted the wealth of narrative material present in the conflicts and vastness of Egyptian society. In contrast, he described Dubai as a safe and well-organized society, sometimes lacking conflict-driven stories that often inspire filmmakers. Nour acknowledged that his upbringing in Egypt profoundly shaped his storytelling perspective.
Commercialization of Art
Nour expressed his concerns about the commercialization of art in contemporary society. He noted that creativity has increasingly become market-driven, focusing on what sells rather than pure artistic expression. The rise of AI in video creation was also discussed, with Nour pondering its potential impact on the industry. He distinguished between cinema and movies, underscoring the importance of artistic expression and meaningful storytelling in cinema.
Success in Art
When discussing what constitutes success in art, Nour emphasized its subjective nature and the importance of the artist's message. For him, true success lies in conveying one’s perspective and imparting a lesson to the audience. He valued the intrinsic worth of an art piece over its monetary value.
Filmmaking Process and Budgeting
The conversation then turned to the practical aspects of filmmaking, particularly budgeting. Nour explained that creating a budget for a film involves detailing costs and seeking investors who believe in the project. He highlighted the challenges of film distribution, which often requires industry connections. Different types of investors, their expectations, and the potential returns they might seek were also discussed.
Challenges and Opportunities for Filmmakers
Nour acknowledged the challenges filmmakers face, including the uncertainty of a film's success and the limited opportunities in certain markets. Nonetheless, he pointed out the potential for independent filmmakers in Dubai, where the market is less saturated. He encouraged aspiring filmmakers to take risks and stay true to their creative visions.
Personal Values and Artistic Choices
Sharing his values, Nour said he prioritizes his creative vision over financial gain. His desire to create films that reflect his perspective and tell meaningful stories is paramount. Nour expressed disinterest in directing a Marvel movie as it does not align with his artistic vision.
The Role of Conflict in Storytelling
Nour elaborated on the critical role of conflict in storytelling, noting that it drives the narrative forward. He mentioned that the pervasive conflict in Egyptian society offers ample material for stories, while in Dubai, the lack of overt conflict requires deeper exploration to find compelling narratives.
The Role of Investors in Filmmaking
The conversation also touched upon the role of investors in filmmaking. Nour explained that while investors can provide essential financial support, their involvement varies based on their expectations and the project's scale. He noted that short films often attract smaller investors looking to diversify their portfolios.
Art Institution and Location
The meeting concluded with a discussion about the art institution hosting the event. Nour shared that the location, Al Fahidi, holds cultural significance as it used to be the home of Emiratis. The institution, managed by his mother, aims to offer a space for people to explore and learn about art.
Conclusion
The meeting with Nour provided deep insights into his filmmaking journey, the industry's challenges and opportunities, and the paramount importance of artistic expression in storytelling. His passion for art and dedication to meaningful storytelling left a lasting impression on all attendees.