Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Suraj Savkoor. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Suraj, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

I have always believed in the power of cinema to tell meaningful stories that resonate with people’s hearts and minds. My journey as a filmmaker took a profound turn when I directed the movie ‘For Paloma,’ a deeply personal and poignant tale about a mother’s journey of acceptance and love for her daughter born with Down’s syndrome. This extraordinary story, crafted by my dear friend April Aguilera, served as a heartfelt tribute to her daughter Paloma, and it touched the lives of numerous families who have experienced similar challenges.

Through ‘For Paloma,’ I witnessed the tremendous impact that an authentic portrayal of diverse characters can have on audiences. It became a catalyst for my unwavering commitment to champion diversity, inclusion, and accurate representation in the world of filmmaking. I realized that there are countless stories and voices that Hollywood often overlooks, and it became my mission to amplify those voices through my work. I believe in giving a platform to narratives that celebrate the beauty of our differences and challenge societal norms. The success and recognition ‘For Paloma’ received only further fueled my passion for telling stories that have a lasting impact on society, promoting empathy, understanding, and a celebration of our shared humanity.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I have always been a storyteller at heart, driven by a passion for capturing emotions and creating narratives that resonate with audiences. When I made the decision to attend film school at Vancouver Film School, it was to validate and explore the depth of my love for storytelling. Little did I know that within just one month of being there, I realized that filmmaking was not just a passion, but my true calling in life.

Money has never been a driving force for me. What truly matters is using my authentic voice to create meaningful and impactful movies. As a writer, director, and producer, I wear multiple hats in the film production process, always striving to understand and experience every aspect of the craft. I pursued a graduate degree in film at Savannah College of Art & Design in Atlanta, where I immersed myself in every department, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how movies are made from the ground up. This holistic approach to filmmaking allows me to be a versatile and effective leader, with a deep understanding of the nuances and challenges of each role within the production team.

What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to championing diversity, inclusion, and accurate representation in the films I create. ‘For Paloma’ stands as a testament to this ethos, touching the lives of families with members born with Down’s syndrome and garnering recognition in the industry. I am proud of my ability to tell stories that have a lasting impact, promoting empathy and understanding among audiences. When you work with me, you can expect a filmmaker who is not only passionate about storytelling but also deeply invested in creating a positive change through the power of cinema.

To potential collaborators, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my brand stands for authenticity, inclusivity, and the celebration of diverse voices. I bring a unique perspective to every project, aiming to shed light on untold stories and challenge societal norms. By choosing to work with me, you can trust that you are not only investing in a quality project but also supporting a filmmaker who is dedicated to making a difference. Together, let’s continue to create impactful films that give a voice to those often overlooked by the mainstream industry.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the ability to make a genuine impact and create meaningful connections through your work. As a filmmaker, I have experienced the profound joy of touching people’s hearts, evoking emotions, and sparking important conversations through the stories I tell. There is an incredible power in art to inspire, educate, and ignite change, and knowing that my work has the potential to make a real difference in people’s lives is incredibly fulfilling.

Additionally, being an artist allows for a beautiful sense of community and connection. Collaborating with talented individuals who share similar mindsets and visions is an enriching experience that fuels creativity and innovation. The opportunity to work alongside like-minded individuals, whether it’s actors, writers, producers, or technicians, opens doors to new perspectives and enhances the artistic process. The creative field also provides a platform for networking, where you can connect with fellow artists, industry professionals, and audiences who appreciate and support your work. These connections not only fuel inspiration but also create opportunities for growth, learning, and future collaborations.

Ultimately, as an artist or creative, the most rewarding aspect is the ability to leave a lasting impact, connect with others, and be part of a larger creative community that shares the passion for making a difference through art. It is a privilege to have a platform to express oneself authentically, and to witness the profound effect it can have on individuals and society as a whole.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a particular goal and mission that goes beyond personal accolades. I aspire to reshape the narrative that currently dominates Hollywood by challenging the status quo and promoting a more inclusive, diverse, and authentic representation of stories and voices. Winning awards and gaining recognition are not simply for the sake of personal achievement, but to elevate the visibility and impact of the messages I aim to convey through my art.

My ultimate goal is to take my voice to the highest platforms available to me, ensuring that my films reach a wide audience and resonate with people from various backgrounds. By achieving recognition and accolades, I can amplify my mission and further influence the industry’s direction. I aspire to place my art among the great works that have left a lasting cultural impact, not only for personal fulfillment but to demonstrate that stories that challenge the mainstream narrative can indeed succeed on the highest levels.

While this journey is ambitious, it remains grounded in my deep-rooted belief in the power of storytelling. I want to use my creative platform to shed light on underrepresented stories, voices, and perspectives. Through this reshaping of the narrative, I hope to inspire change, foster empathy, and create a lasting impact on society. It is my vision to contribute to a film industry that embraces diversity, inclusion, and authentic representation, where the stories of all individuals are valued and celebrated.

Ultimately, my goal is to leave a mark on the industry by demonstrating that meaningful, thought-provoking films can resonate with audiences, challenge societal norms, and pave the way for a more inclusive future in filmmaking.      

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @surajsavkoor
• Facebook: /surajsavkoor

Image Credits
Shannon Zaller Andres Lopez