Geeta Gandhbir... on documentary filmmaking

Abhay is joined by award winning filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir, as she discusses her journey in making documentary films, the importance of empathy in storytelling, and the challenges faced by marginalized voices in the industry. She reflects on her personal experiences, the influence of her mentors, and the need for representation and trust. Geeta also shares insights on her latest project, 'The Perfect Neighbor,' which explores the complexities of community and violence. She is currently directing a series for Netflix with Spike Lee and Samantha Knowles, which is a retrospective on post-Katrina New Orleans. Gratefully, we also talked about Star Wars and Amar Chitra Katha.
(0:00 - 2:50) Introduction
(2:50) Part 1 - empowerment and practice
(16:47) Part 2 - highlighting the African American experience, making 'The Perfect Neighbor', empathy as a vehicle, activism
(33:49) Part 3 - legacy and mentorship, cultivating trust
(48:42) Conclusion

SHOUT OUT: There are major headwinds that are making it harder and harder to freely share stories and news especially from communities of color,  so please check out URL media and EpicenterNYC, both the brainchildren of my friend and veteran journalist, Mitra Kalita.

Correction - A shared quote in the episode is from director Grace Lee (not Spike Lee). My bad!