Meet Hussain Najam | Storyteller

We had the good fortune of connecting with Hussain Najam and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hussain, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Theatre, in its essence, was where I found my calling. It was as though the stage itself whispered to me, unveiling a perspective on the world that transformed the way I perceived this world. This art form, with its profound ability to convey stories, awakened a passion within me, a love for the craft of storytelling that has since become the cornerstone of my existence. Every medium that I get to explore, from the traditional proscenium to the vast expanse of filmmaking, my singular mission remains to tell stories of significance that inspires a change deep within. It’s a pursuit that not only defines my career but enriches my soul. Indeed, no matter where my artistic journey takes me, the heart of my work lies in weaving narratives that resonate.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a filmmaker and a multidimensional artist residing in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, my endeavor is to seamlessly integrate my expertise in cinematography, writing, and directing. With my academic roots in Film & T.V from Karachi, complemented by an MFA in Cinematography from the New York Film Academy, my journey has been enriched by an extensive background in theater acting from the esteemed National Academy of Performing Arts in Pakistan. My role as a Director of Photography has led me to contribute to award-winning short films. Among my recent works, I take particular pride in a documentary produced for WWF amidst the pandemic, and a short film close to my heart, “The Bench,” which I had the privilege to write, direct, and photograph. My creativity also finds expression in directing music videos for Bollywood artists, achieving millions of views for renowned labels.

My expertise extends to collaborating with major brands, crafting narratives that enhance their visibility across all major social media platforms.

The journey has been anything but easy, yet seeking ease has never been my aim. Comfort breeds complacency, and in that complacency, art loses its breath. The conviction that one must continually challenge oneself fuels my drive. I consciously choose projects that resonate with my values and ideals, fully aware that some may view this as detrimental to my career. However, I’m committed to the long-term vision, undeterred by temporary setbacks. I urge my fellow artists to remain unwavering in their principles and aspirations. Let not the mainstream media dictate the measure of success. In this context, I’m reminded of a thought-provoking quote by Jim Carrey: “I think everybody should get rich and famous and do everything they ever dreamed of, so they can see that it’s not the answer.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
On a week-long sojourn in Los Angeles, my itinerary would be a culinary pilgrimage to the city’s renowned ‘Halal’ food havens, a journey I’d embark on with my comrades. They understand all too well my philosophy of living to eat, rather than eating to live. Among the culinary gems on our list would be the delectable HiHo Cheeseburger in Santa Monica, the most amazing Wings and Pizza at Big Al’s Pizzeria in Maywood, the exquisite Iranian cuisine of Heider Baba in Pasadena, and, certainly not least, Bundoo Khan in Fullerton, where the Pakistani BBQ reigns supreme.

Our adventure would also include cultural excursions such as experiencing a film in the iconic Chinese Theater. In a daring twist, we’d venture on an unauthorized hike to the Hollywood sign, seeking the thrill of the forbidden. Laguna Beach would serve as our canvas for street photography, capturing the essence of one of my favorite spots in LA through our lens. And, in moments of serene contemplation, we’d find ourselves gazing at the luminous full moon, basking in its glow on a clear night at the beach, letting the world stand still around us.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I believe that the moment of one’s birth is akin to an untouched blank canvas. The environment and upbringing in which one is immersed play pivotal roles in shaping the masterpiece that this canvas will one day become. I don’t know if I’ll ever be called a masterpiece lol but in my own tapestry of life, I attribute the virtues and the essence of goodness within me to the foundational brushstrokes laid by my parents. It is through their guidance and influence that the colors of my character were mixed and applied, crafting the person I am today.

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