The Oscar-winning Rayka Zehtabchi discovered her unique voice

May 20, 2023

"I was a young person," explains Rayka. "I was about to leave my position as a PA, and Uber driver. It was a very exhilarating event." However, as unlikely winning was to Rayka in the moment however, it wasn't at all. It had a rapid-fire record-breaking success. "It was an idea that was in the works for quite a while in the past. But I don't know that we had ever considered the possibility of having the ability to take into consideration the Oscars discussion."

The production of the short was the result of a love affair. The recognition and the fame that follows the kind of accomplishment came with an associated cost. The ceremony was quick and fast, and it left Rayka searching for a way to reset. "I have left the Oscars with the impression that I was required to make a change, and I needed to continue to pursue my own artistic expression as a filmmaker," she says.

After four years of absence, Rayka is back as a pioneering documentary film maker and has an interest in storytelling as well as art. We spoke with Rayka to learn more about the process she used to discover her voice, and keep her creative spark going.

What made you realise that you'd like to become an actor?

Rayka One year ago, I was 15, I think. I wasn't sure what I was looking to pursue in the field of film. I thought that directing was enjoyable, producing sounds fun and production design is fun. I had the opportunity to play in other areas when the time was at college. The biggest thing that I've experienced throughout my lifetime that gave me the idea as well as the belief that I could make a film, was the mentorship program. Film class was one I took while in high school. It was called Film at Academy of the Arts.

It was a great pleasure to have had the privilege of being a part of this class as you begin learning about art at a really young stage, and then it seems like a less enormous hill to ascend. It's like you see yourself in the exact same situation. I thought, "I want to do this however, I'm not comfortable doing anything else."

   You're a pro in short documentary. What is the uniqueness of this method?

Rayka The truth is that I enjoy the short film format for a number of reasons. The first is the low barrier of entry. It doesn't require the most costly budget, or even anything to create short films. The stakes don't matter too much. What the artist gets is more flexibility with their creative process. You have the chance to express your creativity, as well as not being too expensive. Discover new ideas.

Each film I've made is unique due to its being a new concept or idea. It doesn't necessarily have to do with the topic however, it explores something completely new. It's thrilling and fun not something I've ever experienced before. I'm sure that you always get the opportunity to investigate that idea easily with larger tasks.

   It's commonplace for work to be issue-driven However it's important not to compromise style in the name of story. What are you able to do to make sure that these are balanced?

Rayka What makes me believe that my coworkers as well as me have a constant conversation regarding shape. What can we achieve to expand our work beyond its limits in a way? Particularly with documentary, there are many occasions, events occur which make the work seem repetitive or push you towards journalism sensibilities. The craft, however, may be an afterthought. We're aware that we're constantly thinking of ways to put the craft and the storytelling ahead of the telling.

Since the work should be authentic, technically sound and logically sturdy. It should be a journey. your journey. Your journey should be enjoyable. They should be a fun visual experience. For most of us, it is the only way allows you to combine all the beauty of art and human. It is the reason I believe every piece we make must include both.

What kind of life as an artist in the creative arts was like after the announcement about the Oscar Award?

Rayka This is a YES. It's certainly been an adventure. It's fantastic. There were a few difficult times. The path has been full of progress. This was a significant step that I had to make. It is important to contemplate your decision as well as to block out the sound. You must say "This is me. What do I'm searching for? What is crucial to me?"

In this moment, I was able to see that what I valued most was the sense of belonging with what it was that I was working on, regardless of what it was. The decision to step back gave me the opportunity to look at myself and consider. It also allowed me to undergo the painful and challenging process to figure out what voice speaks to your personality, who you would like to be and the kinds of things you would prefer to focus your efforts on.

What is your motivation?

Rayka Actually there are tales to tell. It is necessary to think for many hours, and follow the story before making a decision on how to make the story. Because it takes a lot of work, time as well as effort and emotionally charged energy. Personally, I find no matter if I'm working, I'm emotionally involved in the task and I will never be willing to do work unless I'm involved emotionally in this task in a way.

The key is to feel driven by the story you tell or the message you're putting out to the world, and sharing your opinions with others. Are you convinced that this would be something you're capable of doing in the process of making the film?

You received your first Staff Select following the awarding of an Oscar How did you feel?

I recall feeling content even though we had just come from the Oscars and the concept was bursting out of our heads. The event was very enjoyable and amusing and got somewhat sloppy. It cost one hundred dollars. This means that having a Staff Pick was a great idea because it was comparable to when you got the recognition.

What do you make use of during your working day?

Rayka  is a name I'm using almost always in some manner. It's when a great acquaintance has given me an excellent video or Staff Pick that's wonderful and I have to see it to get some motivation. Or because I'm uploading my videos and using review tools.

or if I have to locate the top talents. That is I remember when I was working in one particular area around the period of the pandemic, which was a huge issue. I had to find an animator who did exactly the same type of animation. After that, I went down the Staff Picks rabbit hole in the category animation. I think I went through 30 pages or so. Also, I came across an awesome animator that we ended having selected to work with for our project. I would love to work with him again. It's a tool and a resource. It's always part of my daily food regimen.

 What advice can you offer to anyone trying to discover their voices?

Rayka Rayka Think it's simpler to record than it has ever been. For those who are just starting out. There are a lot of options available. You need to start making things and finding really what sticks and is important for you.

It's a lengthy procedure. It's not a thing that happens overnight. It's important to invest the effort in the process and invest many hours of research the subject matter you'd like to share your thoughts with others.

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