Award-winning director Zig Dulay shared his expertise in a FREE “From Script to Screen” filmmaking workshop at Henry’s Cameras Photo Fiesta 2024 earlier today, offering valuable insights into his creative process and the art of filmmaking.
A product of the University of the Philippines Baguio (Journalism major), this Filipino film director is known for his thought-provoking and socially relevant films. Dulay has won numerous awards for his work, including the Gawad Urian Award for Best Short Film for “Black Rainbow.” His films often explore themes of identity, culture, and social issues, and his unique storytelling style has garnered critical acclaim both domestically and internationally. Some of his notable films include “Bambanti” and “Bagahe,” both of which have received recognition for their compelling narratives and impactful portrayals of the Filipino experience. Dulay’s film “Firefly” bagged the “Best Picture” in the Metro Manila Film Festival 2023.
Here are my takeaways from Director Dulay’s very insightful session (brought to us by Canon Philippines) at Henry’s Cameras Photo Fiesta 2024:
Subject Matters: Filmography as Autobiography
During his talk, Dulay emphasized the profound connection between a filmmaker’s filmography and their life’s narrative, stating, “A filmmaker’s filmography is their autobiography.” He elaborated on this idea by drawing a parallel between creating meaningful films and shaping a meaningful life. He passionately urged aspiring filmmakers to delve into subjects that deeply resonate with them on a personal level and authentically reflect their unique perspectives.
He also touched upon the notion that films can be a medium for self-expression and exploration, where filmmakers can explore their own identities, beliefs, and experiences. He believes that by infusing their personal touch into their work, filmmakers can create truly authentic and impactful films that leave a lasting impression on their audience.
Dulay encouraged budding filmmakers to embrace their individuality and use their films as a canvas to share their stories, dreams, and aspirations with the world. He believes that through this process, filmmakers not only create meaningful art but also leave behind a legacy that reflects their unique journey and perspective on life.
Creating Connections & Finding Purpose
During his talk, Dulay fervently stressed the paramount importance of fostering connections with the audience through the medium of films. He passionately articulated his belief that filmmaking transcends mere personal expression and extends to the profound act of connecting with others, leaving an indelible mark on their lives.
The director underscored the significance of filmmakers contemplating the fundamental questions of “why” and “for whom” they are embarking on the creative journey of filmmaking. He passionately implored filmmakers to recognize their potential as agents of change and to wield their craft for the betterment of society.
Dulay’s words resonated with a call to action, urging filmmakers to step beyond self-serving motives and embrace a higher purpose in their artistic endeavors. He advocated for the creation of films that not only entertain but also inspire, educate, and uplift audiences. By crafting stories that resonate with viewers on a personal and emotional level, filmmakers can ignite conversations, challenge perspectives, and ultimately contribute to a more enlightened and compassionate society.
His emphasis on the power of connection and the potential for social impact serves as a poignant reminder that filmmaking is not just an art form but a means to bridge divides, spark dialogue, and foster empathy among diverse communities. He challenged filmmakers to leverage their storytelling abilities to address pressing social issues, champion marginalized voices, and promote positive change in the world.
What Makes a Story: Objects, Ideas, Reporting, & Found Stories
In a generous sharing of his creative process, Dulay unveiled his approach to finding and developing stories. With an air of wonder, he expressed his conviction that stories are not elusive entities, but rather, they are omnipresent, woven into the very fabric of our existence, eagerly awaiting discovery.
He extended an invitation to fellow filmmakers to open their eyes and hearts to the world around them, encouraging them to draw inspiration from the most unexpected sources. He spoke of the transformative power of everyday objects, the spark of ideas that can ignite entire narratives, the raw material hidden within news reports, and the treasure trove of “found stories” — real-life events and experiences that, when carefully crafted, can metamorphose into compelling and evocative narratives.
Dulay’s words painted a vivid picture of a world brimming with stories, waiting to be unearthed and shared. He implored filmmakers to cultivate a keen sense of curiosity and observation, to become active participants in the unfolding stories of their communities and the world at large. He urged them to embrace the serendipitous encounters and seemingly mundane moments that often hold the seeds of extraordinary tales.
Through his own example, Dulay demonstrated that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places. He shared anecdotes of how a weathered photograph, an overheard conversation, or a fleeting image sparked the creation of some of his most acclaimed films. He emphasized that the key to unlocking these hidden stories lies in a filmmaker’s ability to connect with the world around them, to listen intently, to empathize deeply, and to translate their observations into a language that resonates with audiences on a visceral level.
This director’s approach to storytelling is not merely a technique but a philosophy, a way of life that embraces the interconnectedness of all things. He challenged filmmakers to become not just creators of stories, but also curators of human experience, weaving together the threads of reality to create tapestries of meaning, beauty, and truth.
Simple Stories, Layered Storytelling
Director Dulay eloquently advocated for the elegance of simplicity in storytelling while simultaneously emphasizing the crucial importance of crafting intricate layers and levels within the narrative. He passionately articulated his belief that even the most unassuming and seemingly simple stories can be elevated to the realm of profound and engaging experiences through the thoughtful and deliberate layering of themes, characters, and emotions.
He spoke of the beauty of minimalism, the power of a single, well-crafted image, a poignant line of dialogue, or a subtle gesture to convey deep meaning and evoke powerful emotions in the audience. He cautioned against the pitfalls of over-complication, where excessive exposition and convoluted plotlines can obscure the heart of the story and alienate viewers.
Dulay encouraged filmmakers to embrace the art of suggestion, to leave space for the audience’s imagination to fill in the gaps, and to allow them to connect with the story on a personal and visceral level. He emphasized that the most impactful stories are often those that leave a lasting impression, lingering in the minds of viewers long after the credits have rolled.
At the same time, Dulay recognized the importance of layering, of weaving together multiple threads of meaning and complexity to create a rich and textured narrative tapestry. He spoke of the power of subtext, of the unspoken truths that lie beneath the surface of the story, waiting to be discovered by discerning viewers. He encouraged filmmakers to explore the nuances of their characters, to delve into their motivations, desires, and fears, and to reveal their complexities through subtle interactions and carefully chosen words.
In essence, Dulay’s approach to storytelling is a delicate balancing act, a harmonious blend of simplicity and complexity. He believes that by embracing the elegance of the former and the richness of the latter, filmmakers can create truly unforgettable stories that resonate with audiences on both an intellectual and emotional level.
The Story Chooses the Filmmaker
In a thought-provoking turn, Dulay offered a unique and insightful perspective on the relationship between filmmakers and stories. He challenged the conventional notion that filmmakers actively seek out and select stories to bring to life, asserting instead that the dynamic is reversed: stories themselves possess an agency, actively choosing their filmmakers.
With a poetic flair, he described a mystical dance between creators and narratives, where stories whisper their secrets and yearnings to those whose hearts and minds are attuned to their frequencies. He urged aspiring filmmakers to cultivate an openness, a receptivity to the whispers of stories that resonate with their deepest selves. He encouraged them to trust their instincts, to embrace the stories that ignite their passions and spark their imaginations, for those are the stories that have chosen them as their vessels.
Dulay’s words painted a vivid picture of a symbiotic relationship between filmmakers and stories, a creative partnership forged in the crucible of shared passion and purpose. He emphasized that the most powerful and enduring films are often those that emerge from a deep and authentic connection between the storyteller and the story itself.
By surrendering to the allure of stories that speak to their souls, filmmakers can tap into a wellspring of creativity and inspiration, allowing the story to guide their artistic vision and infuse their work with undeniable authenticity. Dulay’s perspective serves as a poignant reminder that filmmaking is not merely a technical craft but a profound act of collaboration with the unseen forces of narrative, a journey of discovery and self-expression.
Who is Your Protagonist? Where is Your Story Set?
Dulay emphasized the significance of the protagonist in storytelling. He advised filmmakers to carefully profile their characters, delving into their demographics, personalities, and motivations. He stressed the importance of avoiding single stories and ensuring that characters are relatable and believable. Dialogue should reflect the personality types of the characters, enhancing the authenticity of the story.
The award-winning director highlighted the importance of location in filmmaking. He encouraged filmmakers to treat their locations as critical characters in their stories. He emphasized the need to localize stories, capturing the unique essence of each place and its cultural context.
Dulay discussed the “story of time,” emphasizing the importance of time, sequence, and relevance in storytelling. He encouraged filmmakers to consider the specific time period and cultural context of their stories to enhance realism and resonance with the audience.
How Will You Tell Your Story? The Camera as a Character
The multi-awarded director delved into the “how” of filmmaking, discussing narrative techniques, storytelling styles, and the importance of staging reality through blocking and cinematography. He emphasized the need for filmmakers to develop their unique visual language and to use the camera as a character in their stories.
Dulay stressed the importance of understanding the camera as more than just a tool but as a character with its own perspective. He encouraged filmmakers to explore different camera angles, movements, and techniques to enhance storytelling. He also emphasized the importance of knowing one’s camera and equipment to effectively translate creative visions into reality.
Dulay shared his approach to directing, emphasizing the need to create scenes through the camera’s eye. He encouraged filmmakers to consider the brain (details and information), heart (emotionality), and soul (meaning) of each scene. By carefully crafting each element, filmmakers can create visually compelling and emotionally resonant stories.
Henry’s Cameras Photo Fiesta 2024
Zig Dulay’s insightful and inspiring “From Script to Screen” workshop was merely one of the many dazzling jewels in the crown of Henry’s Cameras Photo Fiesta 2024. This grand two-day extravaganza, held on the 24th and 25th of May on the 5th floor of One Ayala Makati, transcended the boundaries of mere product showcases and promotional events. It blossomed into a vibrant and dynamic platform where photography and filmmaking enthusiasts from all walks of life converged to immerse themselves in a world of creative exploration, knowledge exchange, and camaraderie.
The Photo Fiesta was a melting pot of diverse talents, drawing in seasoned professionals, budding amateurs, and curious onlookers alike. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and a shared passion for visual storytelling, as attendees eagerly participated in workshops, masterclasses, and hands-on demonstrations led by industry experts. The event served as a fertile ground for networking and collaboration, fostering connections between aspiring artists, established professionals, and industry leaders.
Beyond the technical aspects of photography and filmmaking, the Photo Fiesta celebrated the very essence of visual art. It showcased the power of images and videos to capture fleeting moments, evoke emotions, and tell compelling stories. Through a curated selection of exhibits, screenings, and talks, the event showcased the breadth and depth of creativity that flourishes within the realm of visual storytelling.
From breathtaking landscape photographs to thought-provoking documentary films, the Photo Fiesta offered a diverse and enriching experience for all who attended. It was a testament to the enduring power of visual art to inspire, educate, and connect people from all walks of life. By providing a platform for learning, networking, and celebration, Henry’s Cameras Photo Fiesta 2024 reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing and empowering the next generation of visual storytellers.