Jacintha Charles is a Writer and Director from Singapore. Her previous films have been supported by the Singapore Film Commission. She is currently in pre-production for her thesis film, First and Last.

Tell us about your journey to find San Francisco School of Digital Filmmaking?

I first joined the school for their 5-week narrative program back in 2010 and have gone on to make more short films after completing the course. Since I have been seriously considering making my feature film in the next couple of years, I decided to head back for the 1-year course.

Describe the 3 most valuable learning or accomplishments you got from being here.

Lining my script! Learning about framing / composition and lighting for the scene, camera work. Mostly technical but for a director, is a huge help to gain this kind of knowledge.

Where do you see yourself and career as a filmmaker in the next 3 years?

Hopefully, I would have finished directing my debut feature film and will be continuing to write stories with characters of a diverse cast. In particular, strong roles for women.

What would you tell aspiring Filmmakers who are considering enrolling?

Embrace learning the technical aspects of filmmaking. It may seem overwhelming but give yourself the chance to understand what the camera, lights, editing programs can do for you. You will be surprised how it will help shape your stories when you are writing or directing them. The screenwriting sessions with our instructor, Fred Ritzenberg, have also been invaluable. To have a vastly experienced AND working screenwriter teaching in our program has helped with my goals and vision for my stories. Be open to the changes and the criticisms. They are always offered only with good intentions.

Jacintha’s films: