After working as a writer and producer, Palash Dutta has now made his directorial debut with the short film Dance of Joy—Mann Ki Ichcha. Despite challenges in the short film space, his Cannes appearance marks a proud milestone in his evolving creative journey.
After working as a writer and producer, Palash Dutta is now donning the director’s hat with his short film Dance of Joy—Mann Ki Ichcha, produced by Palash Dutta Classic Productions. He shared that he felt it was the right time to make the transition.
“As far as my short film Dance of Joy—Mann Ki Ichcha is concerned, it’s my directorial debut. I’ve been writing and producing for quite some time now, and I felt it was time to translate my stories onto the screen through my own lens. It was a leap of faith, but one I was ready to take,” Palash Dutta said.
This transition from writing to directing wasn’t easy, but he credits his team for making it smooth. Palash Dutta added, “The process becomes easier in spite of some roadblocks.”
Though he did not reveal much about Dance of Joy—Mann Ki Ichcha, he emphasised that it revolves around the deep personal desires of the heart. However, he was quick to talk about the challenges short filmmakers face today, especially in terms of distribution and revenue.
Palash Dutta said, “There are a couple of exclusive short film platforms that acquire short films on a revenue-sharing basis. There were a couple of OTT platforms that used to showcase short film content earlier, but sadly, since the last year and a half, that has completely stopped.”
“So I feel it’s a difficult time for short filmmakers to sell their films and earn profits or even break even. But it can definitely be a great help to future filmmakers as a showreel to showcase their work for mainstream cinema,” Palash Dutta added.
When it comes to acting, he makes it clear that a short film deserves the same respect as any full-length feature. Palash Dutta said, “Acting in short films is no different from acting in a feature film or a web series. It demands the same level of effort, passion, and emotional honesty.”
His earlier projects have not only made it to the screen but also received significant critical acclaim, both in India and globally.
Palash Dutta said, “Thankfully, for whichever projects I have made so far, I was blessed with some great, talented, cooperative, and amazing actors and a fabulous team. They all contributed and surrendered to my vision.
By God’s grace, whatever projects I set out to do, they all were made, were a smooth-sailing process, and saw the light of day. Most of them were critically acclaimed and received appreciation and awards in India and globally.”
Adding another feather to his cap, Palash Dutta recently attended the Cannes Film Festival. Sharing his experience, he said, “Cannes was nothing short of a dream. The energy, the global talent, the celebration of cinema—it was surreal to be part of it all.
Having the opportunity to showcase my work on such a renowned stage is a memory I’ll hold close for life. Cannes has left an indelible mark on my heart, and it has only fuelled my commitment to push boundaries and tell stories that matter.”
