Vidhu Vinod Chopra Highlights the Power of Collaboration in Filmmaking

Vidhu Vinod Chopra, recently honored with the Best Screenplay in a Feature Film SWA Award for his work on 12th Fail, has brought attention to a crucial but often overlooked aspect of filmmaking: collaboration. Chopra's comments emphasize that filmmaking is a cooperative effort that relies on the collective talents and contributions of many individuals, not just the celebrated stars and directors.

In his acceptance speech, Chopra credited his co-writer Jaskunwar Kohli and other collaborators for their significant roles in the creation of 12th Fail. Kohli, who initially joined the project as a drone operator and later became an assistant editor, played a crucial role in the film's post-production process. Chopra expressed his appreciation by highlighting Kohli's contributions as an associate editor and then co-editor, a testament to his exceptional work.

“Though I am winning for 12th Fail, some of the lines were written by Ayush, and some by Jaskunwar Kohli,” Chopra said. He further emphasized the importance of acknowledging the collaborative nature of the project, noting that Kohli’s name was placed prominently as an editor, reflecting his critical involvement.

Chopra’s remarks serve as a reminder of the often-underappreciated roles behind the scenes. By recognizing and celebrating the collective effort that goes into filmmaking, Chopra advocates for a more inclusive understanding of success in the industry. His praise for Kohli’s contributions highlights the importance of valuing every team member’s role, from initial conception to final execution.

Chopra’s reflections align with a broader call within the industry to foster a culture of collaboration and mutual respect. As the film industry continues to evolve, acknowledging the efforts of all contributors can help build a more equitable and supportive environment for creativity and innovation.