South Goa beaches are a go-to choice for budget filmmakers

As the sun begins to set, finishing touches are given to an artistic ensemble on the beach and at sunset it is lights, camera and action. To many of those passing by, it appears to be two individuals taking their destinies to another level.

Not at this particular location though because beaches in South Goa, apart from being showcases of health retreats, are, after the pandemic, offering platforms to aspiring cinematographers.

“Apart from being a beautiful location, beaches in Goa are ideal places for upcoming movie directors with limited budgets. I get an excellent setting at minimum cost and with the least hindrances,” explains Vivek, as he readies a wedding sequence on the beach.

With no screens or lights the crew focuses on natural settings with little emphasis on light and a touch of fireworks. The décor is minimalistic, the costumes threadbare but the capture, riveting.

“We do a tie up with the shack owner and that is about it as there are no permissions required nor any heavy-duty cameras or settings. This production is based on bare settings,” confides Vivek, whose tone determines the light, camera and action as sun drops down further.

Shireen, a team member, observes from behind the sets. As the acting unfolds, she nods her head in agreement and at times appears upset on the manner the camera is being focused. Yet, she does not interrupt the roll.

“This place has so much to offer in terms of tourism that at times, I feel it is better to set base here then to get back into the rigmarole of life in Delhi. The people here do not tend to fleece and are generally very helpful,” says the artist from the north.

“Despite the flow of tourists, beaches are not crowded and it is easy to schedule shoots right through the day without any interference. If requested, people move aside,” says Shireen.

Fidelis, the shack owners observes the shoot and says, “The group asked me how much I would charge for them to shoot in front (of my shack). The beach is not mine and so I couldn’t charge them anything. They were happy and I am happy with the business I am getting at the shack.”

As the actor couple gets ready to take the wedding kiss, a foreigner rushes close to the actors and keeps shooting at will. “This is cool man,” he says as he gets his fill. “In my country, no one can be anywhere near,” he mutters as he walks towards the shack to pick up a beer.

Goa, already a wedding destination, is soon turning to be a destination for upcoming movie crews with limited budgets wanting to reel their dreams on the silver screen.

But weddings are also happening. “The wedding season has started. We hosted a Hindu wedding the other day and bookings are on right through to February. Our place has been booked by locals and people from other states,” admits Raul, who manages a wedding destination bordering a beach.

“We have high-end clients and middle-income families. At the end, it is the satisfaction of our clients that matters. The happier they go, the better we feel because weddings are special and once in a lifetime occasion,” he says.

For many, it is the view of the sea in the background that makes their special day exceptional, with nature adding its bit that no man can.