Deepa Bhatia Talks “First Act” and Child Actors

Deepa Bhatia, a renowned editor and director, delves into the lives of child actors in her latest docu-series, First Act. The series, streaming on Amazon Prime Video, offers a deep look at the challenges faced by young actors in the Indian entertainment industry. Bhatia shares that the idea for the series stemmed from her experiences while working on various films where she met numerous parents of child actors. She began researching in 2017 and started filming in 2019. Her goal was to highlight the often overlooked hardships these young talents endure.

Behind the Scenes of First Act

In her exclusive interview, Bhatia reveals the meticulous process behind First Act. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and respect while documenting the children’s journeys. The series showcases the highs and lows, from auditions to balancing schoolwork with acting jobs. Bhatia discusses the ethical dilemmas parents and directors face, aiming to create awareness about the emotional and physical toll on child actors. Her compassionate approach ensures that the series is not only informative but also empathetic, shedding light on the reality behind the glamour.

Impact and Future Aspirations

Bhatia hopes First Act will spark a conversation about the treatment of child actors in the industry. She believes that greater awareness can lead to better support systems for these young artists. Reflecting on her journey from editing to directing, Bhatia shares her excitement for future projects that continue to explore meaningful and impactful stories. Her dedication to telling real, human stories is evident in her work, and she looks forward to further contributions to the world of film and documentaries.