Meet Suraj Savkoor | Screenwriter, Director, & Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Suraj Savkoor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Suraj, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired by the rich tapestry of human experiences and emotions. The stories of everyday people, their triumphs and struggles, ignite my creative spirit. I find beauty and depth in the ordinary, seeing the potential to transform mundane moments into profound narratives. My passion lies in giving voice to the voiceless, crafting visual poetry that resonates with authenticity and empathy. Each person I encounter, whether family, friend, or stranger, becomes a muse, contributing to a mosaic of stories that reflect the diverse spectrum of life. These personal interactions, often overlooked in the rush of daily life, are where I find the most compelling stories. They are a reminder of our shared humanity, each one offering a unique perspective that enriches my work. In elevating these narratives through film, I aim not only to entertain but to foster understanding and connection. My journey in filmmaking is thus a continual exploration of the human condition, a pursuit to capture the subtle nuances and raw emotions that define us.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey to where I am today professionally has been far from easy, marked by a path strewn with challenges and steep learning curves. The film industry, known for its competitiveness and saturation, presented the first major hurdle. Breaking into a realm with no network connections meant that I had to build everything from scratch, often facing rejection after rejection. These rejections, coupled with plenty of self-doubt, made the process even more daunting. It wasn’t just my own doubts; I also encountered skepticism from others, adding another layer of difficulty to persevere through.

Overcoming these obstacles required a steadfast commitment to my vision and values. Staying true to myself became my guiding principle, helping me navigate through moments of uncertainty. This authenticity in my work and approach gradually helped in carving out a unique space for myself in the industry. I learned to view each rejection not as a setback, but as an opportunity to refine my craft and approach. I learned resilience, and with every ‘no’, I found a stronger sense of purpose and clarity about my end goal.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is the power of perseverance. Success in such an industry isn’t just about talent; it’s equally about the grit and determination to keep going, regardless of the odds. I want the world to know that my brand and story are built on the foundation of unwavering dedication and a commitment to authentic storytelling. Every project I undertake is a testament to a journey that started from the ground up, fueled by passion and the relentless pursuit of a dream.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We’d start with a trip to ‘Dil Bahar,’ a cozy Pakistani cafe in Norcross that I frequent 2-3 times a week. They serve phenomenal food and beverages, all made from scratch, offering an authentic taste of Pakistani cuisine. It’s a gem in the area and a great way to start our week-long journey. Beyond that, Atlanta is rich with diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own unique vibe. We’d explore the vibrant street art in the East Atlanta Village, enjoy the bustling energy of the Beltline, and relax in the serene beauty of the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, while it’s true that people like my mother, who has been an unwavering pillar of support, and friends who have guided me towards pivotal decisions, like pursuing a course in media, have played crucial roles in my journey, it’s equally important to acknowledge my own contributions. In recognizing my achievements, I’d like to give a shoutout to myself. It’s often easy to overlook the dedication, hard work, and resilience one puts into their own success. This self-recognition isn’t just about celebrating victories, but also about appreciating the journey, the setbacks turned into stepping stones, and the personal growth that has led me here. So, while I’m immensely grateful to those who’ve supported me, I also want to honor the effort and passion I’ve invested in, all the sacrifices I’ve made, and all the struggles I’ve overcome in becoming the filmmaker I am today.

Instagram: instagram.com/surajsavkoor

Image Credits
Shannon Zaller Kyle Dionne Andres Lopez