KATHMANDU: Get ready for a groundbreaking cinematic experience as “Basenji,” a Nepali film, is poised to hit theaters on October 13.
This film promises a unique narrative style reminiscent of video games, where the camera angle shifts between the first-person and third-person perspectives, offering viewers a perspective unlike anything seen before in Nepali cinema.
The film “Basenji,” directed by American filmmaker Ian Scott Clement and produced by Suraj Mainali of Gourishankar Entertainment, unfolds through the eyes of its protagonist, “Prabesh.”
At times, the audience will feel as if they are right beside him, experiencing his every fear and thrill, according to the makers.
Prabesh, portrayed by actor Asim Niraula, is a character who embarks on a journey from Western Nepal to Kathmandu after his father’s dismissal due to his investigative journalism on agriculture.
His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Akash, played by Supreme Rai, who advises him to seek solace in a nearby village near Kathmandu to alleviate his anxiety.
Thus begins a spine-chilling series of events that form the core of “Basenji.”
Director Ian Scott Clement, known for his previous Nepali film “Mango Pickle,” is deeply influenced by the Nepali environment and way of life.
“Basenji” represents an innovative experiment in Nepali cinema, utilizing special headgear to achieve the first-person perspective, allowing audiences to witness the world from Prabesh’s viewpoint.
Additionally, a gimbal is used to capture the third-person perspective, providing a closer look at the character and their behavior.
Clement shared his thoughts on this pioneering endeavor, stating, “This is an experiment that has not been done in Nepali movies so far. We created a special headgear to hold the camera for the first-person point of view, to show the world from the character’s perspective.
“In the same way, we have used a gimbal to show the point of view of the third person, so that you can see the character closely or observe his behavior. I fully believe that we have succeeded in bringing something new to the Nepali audience,” he stated.
“Basenji” not only explores innovative storytelling techniques but also features acclaimed actors such as Mithila Sharma and Sarita Giri in prominent roles.
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