Farhana is a forward-thinking film producer, having worked to get a variety of individualistic films off the ground: “nothing beats the thrill of being on set” she beamed; “that feeling of knowing that you’re partly responsible for lifting an idea off the page, and having such a massive operation in front you”. Transitioning from her own production company Fable Films, she is currently a film executive at Endor Productions; the outfit responsible for such ground-breaking and acclaimed dramas as ‘State of Play’ and Roald Dahl’s ‘Esio Trot’. In addition to this, she has recently produced her first feature movie, the quirky, black-comedy ‘Bonobo’, to much gleeful, social acclaim. The film, which explores ideas of “middle-class British repression” and questions the conventional values by which we tend to measure success, was premiered at the ‘Raindance’ and ‘Reykjavik’ independent Film Festivals, and centres on an edgy, older mother who tries to persuade her daughter to return from a “peace-loving” commune who “strive to live by” the compassionate principles of the Bonobo ape. With ‘Bonobo’ being one of the very few movies to feature female leads over the age of 50, Farhana shows that being open-minded can open doors in your career. This is only confirmed by the prestigious Screen International, who selected her one of their top ‘Stars of Tomorrow’ for 2015.
Tell me more about your current feature; what can we expect?
‘Bonobo’ is a Matthew Hammett Knott film, a filmmaker I’ve been working with since the start of my career. One of its many stars includes Tessa Peake-Jones (Only Fools and Horses). The film follows Judith (Peake-Jones), a lonely, divorced housewife who learns that her daughter has run away to join a commune. Seeking to put an end to this ‘debauchery’, Judith agrees to join the commune for just one day. But while she’s there, she learns some interesting facts about herself and starts to question her own ideas about relationships and society.
Is there a particular type of script you look to produce?
After finishing 'Bonobo', I started working for Hilary Bevan Jones at Endor Productions. I joined the company working in development (finding new ideas and talent) and I have since started to work more closely on the company’s film slate. I’m not wedded to a particular genre or subject matter; instead I’m drawn to scripts that move me. I love learning about interesting people or moments in history, but for me it’s always about the characters– I don’t always have to like them but I enjoy getting under their skin.
Did you study film; how did you get into it?
I didn’t study film at university, where I attended Trinity College, Cambridge. I studied Spanish and Italian with a particular focus on literature. While my degree touched on film, it was always from a theoretical perspective so I never considered filmmaking as a career. It was only when I started working on a student film festival, Watersprite, that I began to forge links with filmmakers. After graduating I started working at Google but I made short films as a hobby alongside. At this point I realized what I loved doing, and decided it was time to make the jump.
What grabs you in particular about the world of film-making?
Among other things, I love the global reach films can have. At the moment we’re translating Bonobo into Spanish and I love the idea of making something that can reach an audience you might never meet.
Is there any particular type of film you enjoy producing?
I’ve been drawn to comedies mostly, but I’d love to produce a political thriller. I’m also keen to produce a family movie – something that can be enjoyed by children and adults.
What has been a highlight of your career?
It always makes me feel proud when fans of ‘Bonobo’, often older women, come to us after the screening to tell us that the film has particularly resonated with them. I guess middle-age sexual liberation is often neglected on screen.
Is there a particular producer/director you admire, and why?
My obsession with all things Spanish is probably to blame, but I love watching films by Pedro Almodovar. There is so much more to him than outlandish characters and a vibrant visual style. All his films are rich in symbolism, while also being deeply entertaining (and commercially successful!)
Name a good film you’ve seen recently?
Wild Tales: a dark comedy composed of six sketch-like variations on themes of anger and revenge. Each of the films involve violence while also illustrating the arrogance of the wealthy and powerful. I love this film because it is an unsettlingly funny look at human behaviour when pushed to its limits, but also because it manages to weave in strong political commentary.
What is your advice to other young producers looking to start out in this industry?
Work in development; learn the tools to get your script right. Matters of production are invaluable but easier to master with experience. It’s also really important to pay close attention to the creative process of discovery and appreciation. Finally, try to learn the ropes by working for people whose output inspires you.