German movie star tips local filmmakers

Eight ambitious young Rwandan filmmakers have concluded a ten-day workshop conducted by renowned German filmmaker Peter Heller.It was held at the Goethe-Institut liaison office in Kigali, where participants trained in both theory and practical on directing, writing, shooting of videos and editing.It ended on Thursday.The New Times caught up with Peter Heller and below are the excerpts.Qn: What was the workshop about?A: It was about documentary filmmaking. Most people in Africa don’t have the experience and opportunity in the art of creation of documentaries, let alone watching movies. So, I was invited to pass on the skills I have in film onto Rwandans.Qn: How was it carried out?A: We started with a week of theory, and later practiced how to produce documentaries.Qn: How would you summarise your experience working with African filmmakers?A: My first time in Africa was 1974 while I was doing my research. Honestly, I wasn’t interested in people but later it all changed; I had a much better connection with the people. It’s a good experience and I’ve loved it.

Leisure

German movie star tips local filmmakers