Despatch OTT Release: Shahana Goswami Explores Building Chemistry For Intense Film Scenes

"How did you and your co-stars create chemistry for the intense scenes in the film? Was there any particular moment that helped you all bond during filming?

In terms of the chemistry, we had very intensive workshops with Kanu, individually and then with our co-actors. For me, it was Manoj, who helped create the background for our character histories, working with the scenes, and building up to the emotional graph and reality of the scenes we play out in the film. I think that somehow created the chemistry, intensity, comfort, and vulnerability between us. Those workshops were very heart-opening and brought about a certain kind of honesty and vulnerability between us as performers and human beings, which obviously translated in the way we played out the scenes. On the day we shot the scene, the collaboration of everybody involved-the director, cinematographer, everyone else on set, and of course, the co-actor-created an environment that was focused on finding the deepest and truest portrayal of the emotional reality of that scene. I think that's how we created those very intimate and intense moments."

Creating a safe environment for journalists is a significant theme in this film. The narrative highlights how journalists face challenges while uncovering truths. Often met with resistance, their work involves investigating deeper realities. The film reflects this struggle through its storyline. Although solutions are unclear, raising awareness about these issues is crucial. Speaking out against injustices can contribute to improving journalists' safety.

The movie delves into human psychology within a realistic setting inspired by true events. It raises questions about our roles in society's larger framework. This exploration makes it compelling for viewers interested in understanding human behaviour. The collaboration between Manoj as an actor and Kanu as a director adds depth to this exploration.

"Safety for journalists is an important conversation in the film. How do you think such films can contribute to the larger conversation? And what can one do to help improve the situation?

Yes, I think that's just a larger question that one asks in today's day and age because it's something that one would think is given, but it isn't. It's part and parcel of their work and job to investigate, dig deeper, and find the truth, but often times they are met with a lot of resistance for the truth to come out. Any person or group of people trying to bring out a certain kind of reality or truth are targeted or attacked in some way. Yes, that is also part of the reality and depiction within the film. As for what can be done to improve the situation, I don't know. I suppose we can be more vocal about how we feel, and whenever we sense injustice, we can speak out according to our own understanding of humanity and life around us. But I'm not sure, in a concrete way, what can be done for the safety of our journalists. I don't have the answers to that at this moment."

"Why should people invest their time in watching Despatch?

Honestly, I am not a person who oversells something I'm involved in, but I can say that it is an interesting exploration of the human psyche, set against a backdrop inspired by many real events and placed in a very realistic world. It brings up and triggers a lot of questions within us as human beings existing and participating in a larger social construct. I think Manoj is a fantastic actor, and Kanu is a wonderful director. So to me as an audience that itself is a selling point to go and see what these two talented individuals have engaged in and what they have created."

The workshops conducted before filming were crucial for developing on-screen chemistry among actors. These sessions allowed them to explore character backgrounds deeply with guidance from Kanu Behl. Manoj Bajpayee played an integral role during these workshops by helping build emotional connections necessary for portraying intense scenes authentically.