September 2, 2022

David Babayan: “Create a world out of scattered ideas”

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David Babayan was born in 1966 in Yerevan (Armenia) to a family of artists. After the successful completion of the school in 1984, he entered the Institute of Foreign Languages, the Department of Philology. Art has attracted him when he was in an institute where he was the head of the theatrical club and worked as an actor. He also is the director of numerous music videos and the author of television programs and films.

What are the most challenging aspects of being a filmmaker?

Surprise yourself. Involve hidden rooms and attics in the stream of consciousness, and seek the unknown. Create a whole world from scattered ideas.

What is your source of inspiration for this short film?

The absurdity of our existence. Kafka is a timeless creator and all his works are suitable for any era, since a person constantly strives for absurdity, rather than rational actions.
DREAM OF KAFKA | Poster
David Babayan

What is the theme of this film?

The theme of the film is about a small helpless man who falls in a cruel chaos against his will where nothing’s stable. Tomorrow never knows. The cycle of absurdity passes a new cycle, yet, nothing is changing in the system for the better. The price of human life is adevalued to zero.

How do you decide on possible ways to promote your film when you are on a tight budget?

Even with a limited budget, it is possible to create something, that will not be ashamed to present to the public. It all depends on what means you can achieve quality. The integrity of the idea and its implementation is the most important thing.

How important do you think distribution is in today's marketplace?

Many directors are only creators and the intricacies of the film market are unknown to them. In this case, distribution is important to promote the picture. Often, it is her absence or inactivity that leaves very worthy works on the shelves.

For those considering self-distribution, what is your advice?

Self -distribution in all available ways. Make loud and absurd statements, and create Uncomfortable Art.

How significant do you think short films are for someone venturing into directing films?

It is very important. A short film is like a little piece for a composer, after which he wants to write a symphony. Style is formed in a short film where being limited doesn’t change the significance of ideas.

What was the worst challenge of your career so far? How did you take it over?

Each new project is a challenge for the director. He must always start from scratch and should not get settled easily with his work. In this sense, every project is a test.

What are the factors to making a good film?

Strong plot and exquisite taste. Well … also intelligence.

Is there anything you would change if you could go back to the beginning?

I would change everything. At a certain period, a person starts to imagine things that were the plot of his imagination. By implementing false memories he mends the mistakes of the past. Do not believe the people who say: I would have done everything the same way.

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