Community Editorial Board

Brief Written

Research Conducted

Scripting & Storyboarding

Filming

Editing

Screening

Our CVU's work to premiere a new magazine (film) every two months.  These films explore different social issues and are regularly screened in about 25 bastis /villages to large audiences of eager community members.  

Over 100 community members in 5 different states have created more than 100 films being screened to audiences in India and around the world!

1. The Community Editorial Board, comprising of people who live and work within the community, is convened each month.  They discuss possible ideas for the next magazine and brainstorm how the community can use these films as a force of change.  
2. The CP’s meet with the board and discuss ideas for the next film.  When the two parties come to a consensus, the CP’s draft a brief.  The brief outlines how the CVU wants to expose this month’s issue.  The CP’s decide whom to interview, what needs to be researched, where they need to film and so on.
3. Now that the brief is created, the producers start to realize their vision.  They connect with people in the community, research their stories, and identify solutions.  Each film requires different research so the crew is constantly learning about the rules, regulations, and services that affect their community.
4. After collecting all the necessary information, the CP’s create a script and storyboard to help structure their filming.  They decide who will speak on camera and what will be said, the order of the interviews, and overall visualize how all their research will be presented in an entertaining, short feature.
5. The Community Producers hit the streets!  Filming is done over several days and continues until the story comes to life.
6. When all the footage is compiled the producers sit together to edit the film.  This is an opportunity to experiment with new techniques, explore the capabilities of editing software, and to let their imaginations run wild.  Once the film is edited, a copy is sent to Drishti and together we look at ways to improve the final product.
7. Once editing is complete, the film is screened for the Editorial Board.  If it is approved, then screenings begin!

Screenings are a core responsibility of the Community Producers and often the hardest part of the process.  During the editing of an upcoming film, the CP's split into two halves.  One group organizes and hosts screenings in the surrounding villages, while the others work to complete the next film.  Prior to screening, marketing materials are generated, screening sites are identified, and the necessary equipment is organized.  Feedback forms tailored to the particular magazine (film) are generated and a schedule of showings is finalized, before the CP’s take their film to the community. 

Screenings take place daily with the location shifting every day.

Each CVU holds screenings unique to their community, often inviting poets, vocal artists, dancers, theatre troupes and others to perform prior to the screening.  After the film, the CP’s facilitate a lively discussion and sound a call to action.  There is great emphasis placed on listening and responding thoughtfully to concerns raised by community members.