Monish Yengkhom, the only individual from Manipur selected for the prestigious 100 Creative Minds of Tomorrow at the recently concluded 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, stands as a proud representative of his state. This initiative recognizes 100 promising talents from across India, providing them with mentorship to inspire and equip them to create exceptional films in the future. In an exclusive conversation with Imphal Review of Arts and Politics (IRAP) at IFFI Goa, Monish shares his inspiring journey of selection, the invaluable lessons he gained through the program, and his thoughts on the vital support needed to help filmmakers craft impactful cinema that can compete on a global stage.
IRAP: How were you chosen as one of the 100 Creative Minds of Tomorrow, being the sole representative from Manipur?
Monish: There is an entry window in which we make a showreel and a film and submit it there and after that from the entries from across the country, selection was done by IFFI for different departments. For me, I have been selected in the cinematography department. 10 persons have been selected in the cinematography department.
IRAP: Can you share your journey from college to being recognized as one of IFFI’s 100 Creative Minds of Tomorrow? Did you have a background in film or media studies?
Monish: I studied media at a regular college, not a formal film school. After completing courses in media and filmmaking, I returned to Manipur and started working on documentaries and films, creating various video projects. This year, I was fortunate to be selected for IFFI’s Creative Minds of Tomorrow and participated in their filmmaking challenge. Out of 100 participants chosen from across India, we were divided into five teams of 20 members each. In my team, I took on the role of Director of Photography, handling camera work and scene lighting. This role came with great responsibility and offered invaluable learning opportunities.
What stood out most was the diversity of ideas brought by participants, who came from all over the country. Many were from prestigious film schools like SRFTI and FTII, which gave them an edge in understanding the structured and efficient ways of filmmaking. Working alongside them, I learned a great deal—new techniques, skills, and creative approaches that I hadn’t encountered before. The experience was both enriching and inspiring.
IRAP: Do you think IFFI is important for individuals who may be film enthusiasts, filmmakers, or critics?
Monish: Absolutely, participating in IFFI can be a transformative experience. In Manipur, for instance, I primarily encounter a single style of filmmaking, but at IFFI, you’re exposed to a vast diversity of ideas and stories shared by people from across the country. The festival features multiple screening venues where we can watch films from all over the world, showcasing various approaches to storytelling and filmmaking.
Beyond the screenings, IFFI provides incredible opportunities to meet and interact with filmmakers, cast members, and crews, which can be both inspiring and educational. The masterclasses are particularly valuable; they offer mentorship and insights that help refine our filmmaking skills and expand our creative perspectives. It’s a unique platform to learn, grow, and connect within the world of cinema.
IRAP: You have been selected as one of the 2024 100 Creative Minds of Tomorrow. What advice would you give to those aspiring to be part of next year’s edition?
Monish: My advice would be to regularly check the IFFI website for updates and announcements regarding the program. Staying informed is crucial. Once the entry process begins, make sure to submit your work on time, as the application process involves several formalities, such as writing a bio, submitting your CV, and preparing a showreel of your film.
Creating a compelling showreel is key; it should effectively showcase your creativity and technical skills. Also, focus on making a short film of under 10 minutes that truly reflects your storytelling abilities. If your film resonates with the jury, you’ll have a strong chance of being selected as one of the 100 Creative Minds of Tomorrow.
IRAP: Whether from government bodies, private organizations, or individuals, how much support do seasoned and budding filmmakers need to enhance their films, reach a global platform like IFFI, and stay motivated to create meaningful cinema?
Monish: I strongly believe that Manipuri stories deserve a global audience, and films focused on these narratives can play a pivotal role in achieving that. However, the film market in Manipur is relatively small, and as an independent filmmaker, I often face significant challenges.
If the government recognizes the value of our work; not only as a means of showcasing Manipuri stories to a global platform but also as a way to archive these narratives for future generations; it could extend support through grants, subsidies, or other forms of financial assistance. Similarly, support from corporate firms or individuals would also make a huge difference. Ultimately, what we need is a collective effort from all stakeholders to nurture and promote Manipuri cinema. This support would motivate filmmakers to create meaningful and impactful films that can compete on global stages like IFFI.
The writer is a media scholar and professional
