Yashasvi Juyal's debut feature film, 'The Ink Stained Hand and the Missing Thumb', is a captivating exploration of supernatural elements and human experiences, set against the backdrop of India's rapidly changing infrastructure. Juyal's unique approach to filmmaking, as he discusses in this interview, is a testament to his deep understanding of the subject matter and his ability to weave personal anecdotes into a compelling narrative.
Juyal's upbringing in the upper Himalayas, where ghost stories are as common as the mountains themselves, has significantly influenced his work. He describes ghosts as something that exists in reality, not just in stories, and this belief is reflected in the film's portrayal of spectral presence. The film's central character, Rajji, is inspired by real-life toll booth workers Juyal interviewed, adding a layer of authenticity to the supernatural elements.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the film is the interplay between humor and grief. Juyal explains that humor is a powerful tool to identify and understand the characters, and this is evident in the film's tone. The film's script was shaped by the director's experiences with toll booth workers, including their off-hours activities, which further adds to the authenticity of the narrative.
Juyal's influences extend beyond Indian cinema. He cites Apichatpong Weerasethakul for their shared interest in regional folklore and man-animal relationships, and Scott Barley for their experimental approach to building image and sound. Shaunak Sen, the executive producer, has also been a significant inspiration, as his work in documentary filmmaking has provided Juyal with a working model to draw from.
The film's production journey was an interesting one, with funding coming in stages. Juyal's short documentary, 'Rains Don’t Make Us Happy Anymore', premiered at Visions du Réel, and this success led to further opportunities. The Take Ten grant from the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity, the Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum, and mentorship from Spike Lee through the Red Sea Directors Program all played a crucial role in bringing the film to life.
'The Ink Stained Hand and the Missing Thumb' is a testament to Juyal's unique vision and his ability to blend personal experiences with supernatural elements. The film's success at Karlovy Vary is a testament to its compelling narrative and the director's skill in storytelling. As Juyal continues to explore the intersection of reality and fantasy, his future projects are sure to be equally captivating.
