May 14 2024 57 mins
On the first episode of Season 3, Shailja Saraswati engages in an in-depth conversation with Aastha Khanna - India's pioneering intimacy coordinator.
On the show, they discuss Aastha's career, the role and importance of intimacy coordinators in film and television production, and the impact of her work on the industry. Aastha shares insights into the process of choreographing intimate scenes, ensuring actor comfort and consent, and her aspirations for the future of the profession in India.
She reflects on personal motivations, the challenges of introducing a new role in a conservative industry, and her efforts through 'The Intimacy Lab' to educate and train new professionals.
The discussion also touches on society's perception of intimacy, gender dynamics in filmmaking, and Aastha's vision for a safer, more inclusive portrayal of intimate scenes on screen.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Opening Thoughts on Comfort and Consent in Filmmaking
00:57 Introducing Aastha: India's First Intimacy Coordinator
01:46 The Role and Importance of an Intimacy Coordinator
03:11 Expanding the Definition of Intimacy in Film
05:09 The Global Evolution of Intimacy Coordination
12:49 Challenging Gender Norms and the Male Gaze in Cinema
27:38 The Ethical Framework of Intimacy Coordination
31:16 Navigating Consent and Protocols in Film Production
32:40 Adapting to Veteran Actors and Production Needs
33:29 The Art of Managing Closed Sets for Intimacy Scenes
36:02 Achieving Intimacy on Screen: A Case Study
39:09 Fostering a New Generation of Intimacy Professionals
43:46 Upcoming Projects and Personal Endeavors
46:30 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Aspirations
52:33 The Unstoppable Journey: Motivation and Support Systems