It’s July 11, and the Cinema House’s grand hall is captivated by the unapologetic presence of the Jury President of GAIFF 2024’s Regional Competition, Indian-American director Tarsem Singh. Tarsem, renowned for six visually striking feature films, including the cult hit The Fall (2006) and an instant classic music video for Lady Gaga’s song 911, has drawn inspiration from a diverse array of artistic influences, including the unwavering legacy of Sergei Parajanov. Now, he returns to the big screen after nearly a decade, to share his new feature Dear Jassi at GAIFF.
Discussing Dear Jassi, Tarsem reflected on the experience of returning to his roots for the shoot. “It was specifically shot in India, and I loved it. It was a homecoming of sorts.” The film showcases his deep connection to these roots, while also exploring complex narratives in an emotionally resonant way. “The Indian crew was incredible,” he continues. “I only brought one worker with me, and the shoot was one of the easiest, loveliest experiences I’ve ever had.” Continuing Dear Jassi, Tarsem said that he didn’t want to work with A-Listers of Bollywood. “Working with non-professionals is more refreshing. They don’t have preconceived notions, which allows for more genuine performances,” he explains. “With A-listers, you have to be mindful of their personas and ensure you stay true to their image while directing. It’s a different kind of challenge, albeit equally rewarding.” Reflecting on his diverse filmography, Tarsem emphasized the importance of adaptability. “Each project requires a different approach. For instance, I waited 28 years to do the Gaga video, because I wanted to work with music I connected with. I believe in adapting to what you’re given, and this has shaped my career choices.”
On that personal note, I decided to share a story from my military life as an Armenian, that is connected to Gaga’s 911 music video, “My commanders asked me to put on 911 and translate it. They told me you knew it all along and that you predicted the end of the 44-day war.” It warrants an emotional response: “Oh, I wish that was true. The thing is that I had that idea 23 years ago for Massive Attack. And then I kept it in my head. Funnily enough, the style was influenced by my Armenian neighbors’ daughters, but I loved Parajanov for over 30 years. Gaga knew Parajanov too”, he continues. “When I told her about the idea she started crying, she gave me full creative freedom”. The impact of the video resonated deeply within the Armenian community. “It felt great,” Tarsem admitted. “When I looked at their reaction, I loved that Armenia took me into their arms and made their narrative out of it.”
Hayk Sargsian
Discussing Dear Jassi, Tarsem reflected on the experience of returning to his roots for the shoot. “It was specifically shot in India, and I loved it. It was a homecoming of sorts.” The film showcases his deep connection to these roots, while also exploring complex narratives in an emotionally resonant way. “The Indian crew was incredible,” he continues. “I only brought one worker with me, and the shoot was one of the easiest, loveliest experiences I’ve ever had.” Continuing Dear Jassi, Tarsem said that he didn’t want to work with A-Listers of Bollywood. “Working with non-professionals is more refreshing. They don’t have preconceived notions, which allows for more genuine performances,” he explains. “With A-listers, you have to be mindful of their personas and ensure you stay true to their image while directing. It’s a different kind of challenge, albeit equally rewarding.” Reflecting on his diverse filmography, Tarsem emphasized the importance of adaptability. “Each project requires a different approach. For instance, I waited 28 years to do the Gaga video, because I wanted to work with music I connected with. I believe in adapting to what you’re given, and this has shaped my career choices.”
On that personal note, I decided to share a story from my military life as an Armenian, that is connected to Gaga’s 911 music video, “My commanders asked me to put on 911 and translate it. They told me you knew it all along and that you predicted the end of the 44-day war.” It warrants an emotional response: “Oh, I wish that was true. The thing is that I had that idea 23 years ago for Massive Attack. And then I kept it in my head. Funnily enough, the style was influenced by my Armenian neighbors’ daughters, but I loved Parajanov for over 30 years. Gaga knew Parajanov too”, he continues. “When I told her about the idea she started crying, she gave me full creative freedom”. The impact of the video resonated deeply within the Armenian community. “It felt great,” Tarsem admitted. “When I looked at their reaction, I loved that Armenia took me into their arms and made their narrative out of it.”
Hayk Sargsian