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Understanding Indie Filmmaking Hubs: The Role of Independent Film Studios
Ever wondered why indie films feel so different from Hollywood blockbusters? It’s like savoring a homemade dish instead of fast food, personal, bold, and rich in flavor. This blog takes you behind the scenes of independent film studios and the creative hubs that nurture them. From Toronto to Mumbai, discover how these communities foster innovation, champion diverse voices, and shape the future of cinema.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Aug 184 min read
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What Pharma Can Learn from Film Production: Lessons from a Customer Success Manager
Almost a decade ago, I traded indie film sets for conference rooms and clinical trials. Before stepping into my current role as a customer success manager in the pharma industry, I produced two independent feature films. Projects in which I poured my energy and heart into. These days, filmmaking is mostly a passion project; pharma pays the bills.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Jul 73 min read
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The Project That Brought Me Back to Directing
After 5 years away from directing, I returned with a one-day shoot that reignited my creative spark. Here's how I reconnected with filmmaking.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Jun 173 min read
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Olive Oil Fraud Exposed: How FDA Warnings Inspired an Indie Thriller
The Real Crime Behind Cold Pressed: Olive Oil Fraud Exposed When I first read that a large percentage of olive oil sold in the U.S. is...
Viknesh Silvalingam
May 83 min read
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Reimagining Neo-Noir Through Braincell: A New Frontier for Female Protagonists
Braincell redefines neo-noir with a South Asian heroine who reshapes the genre through power, vulnerability, and agency.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Mar 293 min read
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2025 Oscar Predictions: My Picks for This Year’s Academy Awards
The 97th Academy Award nominations are here! From shocking snubs to front-runners, the Oscars 2025 race is on.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Feb 163 min read
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Honoring a Visionary: David Lynch’s Enduring Influence on My Filmmaking
David Lynch’s Blue Velvet is more than just a film. It’s an experience that lingers, unsettling the viewer long after the credits roll.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Feb 34 min read
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Why 'L.A. Confidential' is the Best Alternative Holiday Movie You Didn’t Know You Needed
When we think of holiday movies, snow-covered streets and heartwarming tales usually come to mind—but what about the darker, grittier side?
Viknesh Silvalingam
Dec 17, 20243 min read
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3 Thought-Provoking Films to Embrace Thanksgiving Values for a Heartfelt Holiday
This Thanksgiving, let these films be your perfect pairing with mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Nov 20, 20243 min read
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Leave the Cannoli, Take the CSM: Film Production Skills in Tech
Film production skills like strategic vision, leadership, problem-solving translate seamlessly into success as a Customer Success Manager.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Aug 27, 20248 min read
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Transforming TV: How Different Eras Shaped Today’s Viewing Experience
Explore how television evolution across eras has shaped today’s diverse and creative viewing experience.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Jun 19, 20249 min read
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Neo-Noir Awakening: Exploring the Genre That Redefined Cinema
Discover how neo-noir has redefined cinema by merging classic noir elements with contemporary themes and innovative storytelling.
Viknesh Silvalingam
May 16, 20243 min read
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From Concept to Screen: Creating a Compelling Writers' Room for Sci-Fi Neo-Noir
This article delves into the essentials of creating a writers' room capable of bringing a Sci-Fi Neo-Noir vision to life.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Apr 9, 20242 min read
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The Transformative Power of Virtual Table Reads in Screenwriting
Dive into the magic of virtual table reads and how they serve as a crucial, transformative step in the screenplay development process.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Mar 19, 20242 min read
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Countdown to Gold: My Predictions for the 96th Academy Awards
From gripping dramas to uproarious comedies, the past year has seen a plethora of cinematic excellence. Stay tuned for updates on prediction
Viknesh Silvalingam
Feb 12, 20241 min read
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Crafting Cultural Magic: South Asian Folklore with Copyright-Free Characters
Explore the creative liberation of South Asian storytelling with Mickey Mouse and cultural treasures. Tradition meets innovation.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Jan 26, 20243 min read
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Globetrotting through Christmas: Festive Foreign Films to Brighten Your Holiday Season!
Discover the magic of Christmas around the world through a curated list of foreign films that embrace the holiday spirit in unique ways.
Viknesh Silvalingam
Dec 21, 20231 min read
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Gobble Up These Films: Thanksgiving Favorites for the Big Screen Buffs
When it comes to Thanksgiving movie marathons, these classics are the real MVPs, adding that extra sprinkle of magic to your holiday feast!
Viknesh Silvalingam
Nov 22, 20232 min read
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My science fiction screenplay will include these 3 elements
I'm in the screenwriting phase of the project. Not to give too much away about the plot, the story centers around a murder in the metaverse.
Viknesh Silvalingam
May 14, 20231 min read
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3 key takeaways from making my first feature film
3 keys takeaways from making my first feature film
Viknesh Silvalingam
Feb 25, 20232 min read
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