American actress Reena Shah, the star of the powerful new Australian creation “SEEMA:The Film,” is a force to be reckoned with. Her involvement in the film, which tackles the sensitive issue of domestic violence, has sparked important conversations prior to it’s release in November this year. We sat down with Reena to discuss her experience working on “SEEMA” and the impact she hopes the film will have on audiences.
Q. What brought you to consider this role in Seema?
A. I am a Multidisciplinary Artist based in Brooklyn, New York and was a Communication Studies Major with a Concentration in Mass Media & Society at New York University. When I saw the casting breakdown for Sabrina’s film for the role of Seema – I immediately felt that I needed to put myself in the mix for consideration on this powerful short-film project with an impactful message. Domestic Violence is a global issue and to speak with Sabrina in-depth about why she wanted to make this film and her vision for it made me feel that I wanted to use my platform as an Artist for Social Change to raise awareness on the epidemic of Violence against Women as well. I felt that I had met a soul-sister
with a similar mindset all the way down under in Australia. In both of us being a voice for the voiceless and standing up for human rights / women’s rights in our own work and to collaborate with her on this shared-purpose was amazing. I feel truly blessed to have met Sabrina as we are both championing women to speak up & fight for what is right!
I am confident that our film will save lives and be a catalyst for change, discussion and will have a profound impact on local cultures worldwide. Domestic Violence affects people of all ages, races, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds. It is estimated that one in three women worldwide will experience some form of violence & abuse in their lifetime.
The power of movies has played an important role in shaping culture and society and has influenced thoughts, opinions, and behaviors. Film also has been used as a medium of cultural expression, as well as a reflection of culture, and has significantly contributed to promoting cross-cultural exchanges & understanding.
Q. How important is it to raise awareness about domestic abuse?
A. It is extremely important and necessary to raise awareness and to provide helpful resources for women, men, & children that are suffering from the consequences of domestic violence. DV comes in various forms: Verbal & Emotional Abuse, Physical & Sexual Abuse, & Financial Abuse being over-controlling about money.
Women can feel trapped when the cycle of domestic violence & abuse continues over and over again. The abusive behavior becomes normalized and the trauma-bond gets stronger & stronger and then there may be no way out of this horrific cycle. Where is the safe haven for them to go get the help they need or who can they turn to when they need it the most?
We must be able to talk openly about the reality of why men are being abusive and how they can be better partners and fathers. Men need healthier ways to process their emotions & anger rather than to take it out on their families.
Mental health issues and substance abuse issues need to be addressed as well as they can contribute to the cycle of Domestic Violence.
Q. What has your Australian experience been like working with Seema cast and crew?
A. I was welcomed with open arms and open hearts from the moment I was confirmed to be a part of the project. Filmmaker Sabrina Khan brought together one of the best professional teams of talented artists that I have had the pleasure to work with. We all embraced this experience with patience, grace, & compassion.
My scene partner, Sydney based actor Morrison James who plays George, was exceptional in handling the more intense scenes with my character Seema and because of the serious subject matter of Domestic Violence – everyone made sure that resources were available to me and the team during the filming process – if we needed them. Sabrina phoned me every evening after we wrapped to make sure I was alright and Producer Heidi Kaye and Make-Up artist Quyen Chung messaged as well to bring comfort after the hardest scenes.
Cinematopher Nameer Alashqar and Camera Assistant Isabelle Bray as well the Marcel & Sebastian from the lighting team handled each and every shot with the utmost care and love which in-turn gave me the freedom to do my best work.
And working with Sabrina on her very first film was a true collaborative effort. She guided me, nurtured me through the on-screen performances, and her peaceful energy made the filming process go very smoothly.
Also, I must say that the people of Australia are the most kind and generous. I felt right at home in Parramatta, Sydney where we filmed.
Q. What did you bring of yourself to the role of Seema in this film?
A. I spoke with friends, family members, read many articles, & watched numerous interviews & movies on the topic of Domestic Violence and Abuse to prepare myself for the role of Seema. Domestic Violence & Abuse encompasses a range of coercive, threatening, controlling, & degrading behaviors that leave the victim feeling isolated & helpless. The
physical and psychological effects of abuse are profound and I hope that this film can give women insight at recognizing the signs of abuse and preventing the severe psychological and physical consequences of Domestic Violence.
The film is set to hit Australian screens in November this year with possible screenings in the USA and beyond. More information on Reena Shah can be obtained at: https://dancingreena.com/
