/ Thoughts from the Editor-in-Chief, July 2011

by Hina P. Ansari

Thoughts from the Editor-in-Chief, July 2011

Jun 15, 2013

The Story Behind The Story

Maybe it’s the producer in me, but whenever I watch a television drama or a feature film, I need to be wowed first by the production value before the dialogue and acting (and of course plot) kicks in. If the shots are set up right, the art direction of the set and the costume design are all on par, all else immediately falls into place for me. Certain films stand out as classics for this reason: Scarface, Apocalypse Now, The Godfather. And if you really had me thinking I can easily name another 10 to 20 films (Citizen Kane, Casino, Goodfellas, The Conversation…see what I mean?).

So lately my Twitter-feed has been very busy with chatter about HBO’s latest drama Games Of Thrones. I was hesitant to invest my time and emotion into another drama. Once bitten, twice shy type of thing. Ever since the sublime Soprano family left us for syndicated re-run pastures I tried other shows to fill the void. I was elated then immediately deflated with Boardwalk Empire. So can this elaborate drama keep me hooked? So far they got me at fabulous fur-cloaked warriors roaming the endless lush landscapes with the repeated dire warnings that “winter is coming.” So its impressive production value captured my heart, now let’s see if the rest can capture my soul.

When it came to putting together our 2nd Annual Entertainment Special Edition not only was I excited to be delivering the unique combination of entertainment news from both the east and west, but I was deeply interested in bringing to the forefront stories of the proverbial (and in some instances literal) blood, sweat and tears that went into making the hit: be it a song, movie, video or play. The finished product is always a beauty to watch; however the story behind the success will always be awe-inspiring.

And you will be awe-inspired by those who have struggled to make it to the top, stay there and use that platform to encourage others to join them at the summit. Our 2nd Annual Entertainment Special Edition covers all realms of entertainment in our own unique way. Jordin Sparks tells us about her transition from being one of the youngest American Idol winners ever to an award-winning chart topper who is now setting her sights on Broadway (“Sparkplug” page 32). We also examine the Bollywood music scene’s love for Indie artists (“The Great Indian Crossover” page 26). Iconic actor Aamir Khan (“Midas Man” page 54) gives us his insights on making the right movie and the right move when it comes to the fickle film business. And we also have an empowering look at the new guard of female directors who are making their mark on the cinematic landscape (“Women On Top” page 85).

So this summer, whether you are on the beach, road tripping or just at the local café, this issue of ANOKHI will leave you entertained and, most importantly, inspired.

Best,

Hina P. Ansari
Editor-In-Chief

I always love to hear your feedback. Feel free to write to me at [email protected].

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ARKAN ZAKHAROV PHOTOGRAPHY www.arkhanzakarov.com

Hina P. Ansari

Author

Hina P. Ansari is a graduate from The University of Western Ontario (London, Ontario). Since then she has carved a successful career in Canada's national fashion-publishing world as the Entertainment/Photo Editor at FLARE Magazine, Canada's national fashion magazine. She was the first South Asian in...