Aspiring filmmakers strive to break through with an inventive, new voice and resonate with audiences by offering a perspective only they can bring to the screen.
For writer-director Anant Mehra, his unique edge has been blending two cultures to create a style that’s close to his heart. Born and raised in New Delhi, India, Mehra furthered his craft in Los Angeles, earning an MFA in Film & Television Production from the University of Southern California. His entrenchment of Western pop culture and Eastern philosophies is catapulting his short films into the current festival circuit, garnering praise from audiences and critics alike.
In a recent interview, Anant Mehra provides insight into his journey as a filmmaker so far, his inspirations, motivations, and what he has in store for the future.
Q: Artists often say, “Find inspiration around you.” Having the chance to experience two distinctly different cultures, what were the inspirations you found in each one, and what made you want to blend them both?
Mehra: I’ve often heard the saying, “Write what you know,” but I believe it’s only partially good advice. While I think we naturally tend to write about the things we know and understand, I also believe that as writers, we’re constantly exploring and seeking new experiences and ideas to incorporate into our work.
In my own writing, I find myself juggling these two philosophies – the need to draw from personal experience and the desire to explore new and unfamiliar territory. My creative voice is an extension of my identity, which has two distinct aspects: Anant Mehra, the kid from New Delhi who was exposed to American pop culture and found it fascinating. There’s also Anant, the quiet and introspective spiritual seeker trying to make sense of the world around him.
In my work, the interplay between the longing for belonging and self-authenticity creates a dynamic tension. I’m captivated by stories exploring this conflict and aim to craft characters and narratives that explore it.
At the end of the day, I believe that the best writing comes from a place of honesty and authenticity.
Q: You recently graduated from the School of Cinematic Arts at USC. Was film something you’ve always been passionate about? What led you to this path?
Mehra: Stories on celluloid have captivated me for as long as I can remember. Even as a child, I found myself lost in the worlds and characters I encountered. It was only natural that I would eventually gravitate towards the medium.
Despite this deep love for storytelling, I initially kept my dream of becoming a filmmaker hidden away. I went to the University of Exeter in the UK, pursuing an undergraduate degree in Business and Management. It wasn’t until my second year that I finally worked up the courage to pursue my true passion.
My family’s initial shock and disbelief quickly gave way to support and encouragement. I quickly enrolled in a summer film program in New York City, where I discovered my own filmmaking ability and realized that I had to pursue it as a career. I was fortunate for the opportunity to learn at the School of Cinematic Arts at USC, where I found my real footing as a writer and director.
Q: Your short film, “Providence,” has been your most-awarded film out of everything you’ve done. What do you think makes it stand out?
Mehra: Providence is the closest example of the kinds of films I aspire to create as features. The film stands out to me because of its scope, subject matter, and theme. It’s deeply personal but also otherworldly. It blends the real with the surreal, the ordinary with the magical. I hope to capture this intersection of the personal and the fantastical in my films.
I’m constantly striving to create honest, authentic, and thought-provoking in my work. I want to tell stories that resonate with audiences on a fundamental level that capture the complexities and contradictions of the human experience.
For me, the best films are the ones that challenge you to think and feel deeply, that push you out of your comfort zone and into a place of reflection and self-discovery. Providence was my first foray into such a film. It’s hard to say if I succeeded, but I’ll keep trying until I do.
Q: You’re able to capture your audience’s attention and curiosity in just 8-13 minutes with these short films. What do you think is your “competitive edge”?
Mehra: I firmly believe that a film doesn’t have to be entertaining to be successful, but it must be engaging. As a filmmaker, it’s our responsibility to create work that captures and holds the audience’s attention, even in a world where we are competing with a plethora of other content.
When I set out to create my film, my main goal was to make it as engaging as possible. I wanted to challenge myself by making an epic film in a short format and on a budget. I won’t say I succeeded in every aspect, but I’m happy with the result, especially as a young filmmaker.
I think that engagement goes beyond entertainment. It’s about creating a world that the audience can immerse themselves in, with characters and stories they care about deeply.
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you had to overcome in your journey?
Mehra: I understand that pursuing a career in the arts can come with challenges and struggles. From societal expectations to financial stability and self-doubt, it can be a constant uphill battle. But I’m committed to facing these challenges head-on and embracing them as opportunities for growth. I believe that maintaining a positive attitude and persevering through tough times is vital to succeeding in this industry. There is so much I hope to accomplish as a filmmaker, and I am determined to stay focused on my goals and contribute to the art form in meaningful ways.
Q: This seems like a great place to ask: what’s next for you?
Mehra: I just finished the production of a short dark comedy, so a lot of post-production is left on that. Now, I’m turning my attention to a feature script I’ve been developing for months. I have a few collaborations and projects lined up for the next few months, and I’m excited to dive in. The work continues!
