BBC Fresh Profile: Ryan Ralph
Filmmaker Ryan Ralph didn't stray far from home to make his film about Bollywood dancing.
Ryan's film explores aspects of Indian culture in Northern Ireland.
Why did you pick this subject for Fresh?
I've very interested in Indian culture, particularly Hindu tradition and religion. I wanted to produce a film that dealt with these themes, and soon realised that I could do just that without leaving my home city of Belfast. I spent a long time searching for a way into the local Indian community so I could say something new about how the culture was celebrated outside India.
What motivated you to make this film?
It was an amazing learning experience, meeting and hearing about Hinduism and how it's celebrated all over the world. Meeting Belfast-born Jayne and understanding her connection to the local Indian scene became a huge factor that had to be addressed. The meeting of two contrasting cultures in this fashion shows how far Northern Ireland has come since the troubles.
What camera did you use to shoot your film?
I used the Canon 550D, which is the entry-level video camera from Canon's DSLR range. I use a shoulder rig that helps me steady my shots.
Who/what inspires you?
I love feature documentaries that go on to have global distribution and success. Some of my favourite over the last few years have been really simply told stories with massive social commentaries such as Bombay Beach, Undefeated and Restrepo.
What are your plans for the future?
I am working in the Northern Ireland TV industry, which gives me the chance to work with other great documentary directors. I want to continue to learn off them, but also have plenty of my own ideas which I hope can make their way onto BBC Northern Ireland's documentary strands.
What is the most important thing you have learned so far?
It's all about the people. Good characters can transform a weak subject, while bad characters can drag down a huge social issue film. I've learned how to dig out these people and develop their arcs in a story.
