What makes a movie? Well, there are so many answers to this question, and surely not only one is correct. Many will say that it is the story that makes a film, and others will say that it is the presentation that makes a film. Still others will argue that it is the director that makes a film, yet more, who credit the actors. Some people see the technical aspect of the movies to be stronger than any other, while some believe it is the music and the dialogues that make a film. All of these views are equally true, and have similar weight. Nonetheless, if there is a choice then I would choose the director to be the most important in film making. The primary reason for the choice is that they are the anchor of the film.
The Nepali film industry boasts numerous talented directors, most of whom have toiled endlessly for years. It is the fortune of the film industry that such talent is available in the country. One of the veteran and extremely talented directors of Nepali movies is Tulsi Ghimire. There is none like him in the film industry; in terms of his work, his personality and his style statement. Adding to his talent, he is also a script writer, editor, cameraman and a lyricist. He started his film career in Nepal, as a director, from the movie, Bansuri in 1981. This happens to be the first Nepali movie directed by Tulsi Ghimire. The movie was not a great success; however, soon after he came with Kusume Rumal in 1985; this film has an eternal place in the history of Nepali films. This film was one of the first Nepali movies to celebrate Silver Jubilee at a cinema hall. Thereafter, Tulsi Ghimire had many other successes to follow, including Lahure, Chino, Deuta, Dakshina, Balidaan, Darpan Chaya, among others. He is one of the versatile directors that the industry has, who has made romantic films, as well as highly sensitive films. Of the Nepali movie directed by Tulsi Ghimire, Balidan happens to be my favorite. This movie was an incredible effort, and delivered well to the audience. The actors, the subject, and the presentation of this movie were fantastic. Likewise, Dakshina had much to say about the education system of Nepal, including the immense respect deserved by teachers. Similarly, it may not be unwise to term Ghimire, a patriotic director with films, like Lahure, Balidan and Desh.
One thing is for sure, whenever there is a Nepali movie directed by Tulsi Ghimire at the cinema halls; it attracts everyone. It may not turn out to be a super hit all the time, but it definitely gains viewers because of the name, Tulsi Ghimire.
