Meet Viknesh Silvalingam | Filmmaker, Family man and Tech worker

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

Hi Viknesh, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
There was a time when filmmaking consumed much of my life—days filled with endless creative exploration and unhurried hours to refine my craft. But now, with a growing family and the demands of a day job, that luxury of time has become a distant memory.

In the past, I could delve deep into my projects without the constraints of balancing family commitments and career responsibilities. Ideas flowed freely, and I had the flexibility to immerse myself fully in my passion for filmmaking. But as life evolved, so did my responsibilities.

Now, finding time for filmmaking feels like navigating through a maze with limited openings. The once expansive stretches of uninterrupted creativity have been replaced by pockets of stolen moments—late nights after everyone has gone to bed or weekends when I steal a few hours away from the bustling routine.

The challenges are not just about time but also about energy. Juggling a demanding day job and being present for my family leaves little room for the creative fervor I once indulged in. Maintaining that same level of passion and dedication requires a delicate balance—a balancing act that often feels precarious.

While my love for filmmaking remains unwavering, the reality of balancing these intricate facets of life has reshaped my creative process. Each spare moment becomes a treasure, an opportunity to nurture my craft despite the limitations. Adaptability has become my ally, allowing me to find new ways to infuse my passion for filmmaking into the tapestry of my family life and career pursuits.

The pace might have slowed, and the journey might seem more challenging, but the essence of storytelling still resonates within me. Embracing this new chapter means evolving, finding solace in smaller victories, and cherishing the moments when my passion for filmmaking and the love for my family intersect.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey into the world of storytelling had its roots in the vibrant tapestry of South Asian cultures in Singapore. Growing up, I was immersed in a diverse environment that fueled my passion for storytelling. As I consumed a mix of international cinema and Hollywood blockbusters, the dream of bridging cultures and amplifying underrepresented voices began to take shape within me.

In 2010, I founded AVIP with a singular vision — to create compelling, culturally resonant stories centered around South Asian characters. The path to where I am today hasn’t been an easy one. Navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry, coupled with sacrifices such as moving away from my entire family and friends in Singapore, presented real challenges. Yet, my determination remained unwavering.

A significant chapter of my early years was spent serving in the military, an experience that profoundly shaped my commitment to camaraderie, getting the job done regardless of obstacles, and the delicate dance of both following and breaking rules. These qualities, honed in the military, are key ingredients in the world of filmmaking as well.

My dual expertise in both the entertainment industry and the pharmaceutical space sets me apart. To support my growing family, I took up day jobs in the Customer Success field in the eclinical solution industry. It wasn’t an easy path, but each challenge became a stepping stone in my professional odyssey.

The lessons learned along the way are profound. Balancing passion with practicality, persevering through adversity, and adapting to different roles have been crucial. My commitment to reshaping American cinema goes beyond storytelling; it’s about challenging stereotypes and showcasing the rich diversity within the South Asian community.

“Braincell,” the TV show I am currently developing to direct, promises an exploration of cultural nuances within a near-future world of advanced virtual reality. What sets me apart is not just my dedication to storytelling but also my deep understanding of the pharmaceutical industry. This dual expertise ensures that my narratives unfold with a grounded and informed perspective, adding authenticity to the storyline.

As a family man and a military veteran, I understand the importance of stability, and camaraderie, and the sacrifices made underscore the passion that drives me. My story is an anthem of inspiration, encouraging others to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Every challenge is a chapter in the narrative of a brighter, more inclusive future, and the values instilled in me during my military service continue to shape my approach to filmmaking.

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?
Day 1: Bookworm’s Delight Starting off at The Last Bookstore – I heard it’s massive and has this quirky book tunnel. Imagine getting lost in there! Then, hitting up New Beverly Cinema for some classic films on 35mm. It’s Quentin Tarantino’s spot, so you know it’s gonna be legit.

Dinner’s at Swingers for that retro diner vibe.

Day 2: Artsy Vibes and Movie Magic
Morning kicks off with The Museum of Jurassic Technology. It’s kinda odd, kinda artsy – perfect for our creative souls. Evening? Hollywood Forever Cemetery Movie Nights. Movies under the stars in a cemetery – how cool is that?

Grab a takeout from Larchmont Village Wine, Spirits & Cheese. And drinks at Tiki-Ti Cocktail Lounge. Tropical cocktails, here we come!

Day 3: Velvet Paintings and Art Inspiration
Starting the day at Velveteria – The Museum of Velvet Paintings. Afternoon, we will be taking it easy at The Getty Center. Not exactly film-related, but it’s a perfect spot for some inspiration and creative vibes.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents and wife have always supported me in my endeavors, regardless of how far fetched it may sound initially., Book: You are a Badass by Jen Sincero

Website: https://www.vikneshsilvalingam.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vikneshsilvalingam/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sviknesh/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100060362173923

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/sviknesh/featured