Meet Vaibhavi Bansal | Director & Assistant Director

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

Hi Vaibhavi, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
From a young age, I found myself immersed in the captivating world of films and television, drawn to the glitz and glamour that it exuded. I have laughed, cried, felt overwhelmed, shocked, amazed, experienced my heart breaking into zillion pieces, felt a loss of words, and sometimes even got goosebumps because that is the kind of effect Film, Music and Art has on me.

While I wasn’t particularly studious, my passion for storytelling found an outlet in novels, and I would voraciously read until the last page. I still remember, rushing home from school to catch the reruns of my favorite shows, a ritual often interrupted by my mother locking the door to the room with the TV. I clearly remember our fights, me acting out and saying that one day I would be there on that screen and that she won’t be able to stop me then.

Reflecting on those moments now, I can’t help but laugh. It was during those times that my dreams began to take shape. My ultimate goal is to provide the audience with a sense of comfort and an escape from reality – to offer a world where they can live a thousand different lives in just a few moments alongside their favorite characters. This aspiration stems from the same enchantment I felt as a child, lost in the captivating world of film and television.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Certainly! My deep passion for romance and thriller novels and films has been a constant source of inspiration throughout my artistic journey. The synergy of my Bachelor’s in English Literature and my Master’s in Film Production has played a pivotal role in channeling my creativity, transforming ideas into compelling visual narratives.

What sets me apart in the artistic landscape is the unique blend of literary sensibility and cinematic storytelling. This fusion enables me to approach my craft with a distinct perspective, creating works that not only entertain but also resonate emotionally. I take pride in infusing depth and meaning into my projects, aiming to offer audiences an immersive and thought-provoking experience.

My professional journey has been a dynamic and challenging evolution. Leveraging my background in event management and organizational skills, I stepped into the role of an assistant director. This experience allowed me to ensure the seamless functioning of sets, promoting efficiency and timely execution that contributed to the success of various shoots.

Overcoming challenges in the industry required a combination of perseverance and adaptability. Navigating the complexities of film production demanded a keen understanding of collaboration, effective communication, and the ability to manage unforeseen obstacles. Each challenge became an opportunity for growth, shaping me into a more resilient and resourceful professional.

The lessons learned along the way emphasized the importance of continuous learning and staying adaptable in the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry. Collaboration, effective communication, and meticulous planning emerged as key components of a successful project.

What I want the world to know about me is that it represents a fusion of literature, film, and organizational acumen. My story is one of dedication to crafting narratives that go beyond the surface, delving into the intricate nuances of human emotions. I aspire to contribute to the world of art by creating impactful stories that linger in the hearts of audiences, leaving a lasting impression.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I recently relocated from Orlando to LA after completing my master’s for work. The move was so recent that I have yet to explore LA thoroughly. Thus far, I have visited downtown Los Angeles and areas like K-town and Chinatown. I highly recommend ‘Crepes De Paris’ for the best crepes in LA, with their dulce de leche crepe being particularly exceptional. Given my inclination, I would definitely take my friends to the beach at night, as I love spending quality time and engaging in conversations under the stars.

Regarding Orlando, it was my home for almost two years. I enjoyed frequenting karaoke venues and clubs in downtown Orlando, attending the Farmer’s Market on Sundays at Lake Eola, and relishing the best vegan breakfast at New General Cafe in downtown Winter Park. And, of course, Universal Studios and Disney would always be on the list.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Coming from a business family in India, pursuing a film degree in the U.S. or even working for someone else was never considered an option. However, I always harbored these significant dreams that I kept concealed from my parents and the rest of the family. As a child, I was inherently rebellious, and the one who consistently supported and stood by me was my elder brother, Parth. He has consistently been the one I turn to whenever anything happens in my life. Parth serves as my guide and pillar of strength; I am confident that he will always stand behind me, supporting any decision I make.

After completing my Bachelor’s in English Literature in India, my family anticipated my pursuit of a master’s degree in Journalism. However, it wasn’t until I secured admission to Full Sail University, completed the visa process, and booked my tickets to the U.S. that I disclosed to my parents and the rest of my family that I was attending a film school. This revelation came as a shock to everyone, except my brother, who had been my confidant and supporter from the beginning. Despite initial surprise, my family gradually accepted my decision and made efforts to support me. Half of what I am today, I owe it all to my family and the rest to the faculty and the people here at Full Sail University, who taught me all that I know about filmmaking.

Coming from a non-filmmaker background, I have gained extensive knowledge. Full Sail has been instrumental in educating me on the various facets of filmmaking, from fostering creativity to translating one’s vision into reality. Throughout my time here, I had the privilege to participate in remarkable and thrilling projects. These experiences not only imparted lessons in teamwork and communication but also instilled in me qualities of patience and endurance.

Subsequently, I had the opportunity to create some short films as a Director. One of my recent directorial shorts, “The Last Goodbye,” received acclaim by winning Best Score and Sound Design at the 10th ARFF Barcelona International Film Festival. Additionally, it was privileged to be nominated in the Best Student Film category at the 11th ARFF Barcelona International Film Festival. Currently, I am eagerly awaiting the results, hopeful for the best outcome.

Website: https://www.vaibhavibansal.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaibhavi-bansal-a54877214/

Other: Email – vaibhavibansal96@gmail.com