Up-and-coming filmmaker Adiraj Singh is making waves with his latest short film, First Time, a project that has quickly gained attention for its sensitive narrative and fresh cinematic style. In an exclusive conversation, Adiraj opens up about his creative process, the challenges of directing an intimate story, and his vision for the future.
Crafting First Time: The Spark Behind the Story
Adiraj reveals that the concept for First Time stemmed from personal experiences and observations about the delicate, often awkward, yet beautiful nature of life’s firsts—especially when it comes to relationships and intimacy.
“I wanted to capture the vulnerability and excitement people feel when they experience something deeply personal for the first time,” he shares.
The film navigates the emotional complexities of a couple’s first night together, highlighting both their nervousness and their desire to connect beyond the surface.
“It’s about more than just physical intimacy; it’s about trust, understanding, and the journey toward emotional closeness,” Adiraj emphasizes.
The Challenges of Directing an Intimate Narrative
Handling a subject as personal and delicate as a couple’s ‘first time’ required a careful, respectful approach. Adiraj admits that creating a comfortable environment on set was his top priority, ensuring the actors felt safe and supported while portraying vulnerable moments.
“The challenge was to strike a balance between realism and subtlety. We wanted authenticity without making anything look forced or overly dramatized,” he explains.
Adiraj collaborated closely with his actors during rehearsals, focusing on building their chemistry and encouraging natural performances.
“A lot of the film’s tenderness comes from the unsaid – the nervous laughter, the eye contact, the small pauses. We worked hard to make those moments feel real,” he adds.
Visual Language & Experimentation
While the story is deeply personal, Adiraj wanted to experiment visually to elevate the narrative. He chose a warm, minimalist aesthetic, using soft lighting and handheld camera work to immerse the audience in the characters’ emotions.
“The idea was to create an intimate atmosphere without being intrusive. I wanted viewers to feel like they were quietly witnessing a private moment, not watching a staged scene,” he notes.
The film also plays with silence and ambient sounds, avoiding a conventional background score in certain scenes to let the awkward pauses and heartbeats speak louder than words.
“Sometimes the quietness is louder than dialogue. I wanted that rawness to come through,” Adiraj explains.
Reception & Personal Takeaway
First Time has been well-received at short film festivals, with praise for its honest depiction of young love and the director’s sensitive handling of the subject.
For Adiraj, the response has been humbling.
“Hearing people say they saw their own stories reflected in the film—that’s the greatest reward for me as a filmmaker,” he says.
What’s Next for Adiraj Singh?
With First Time making its mark, Adiraj is already working on his next short film, exploring family dynamics and generational gaps. He’s also developing a feature-length script—a coming-of-age drama with social themes, aiming to blend realism with emotional storytelling.
“I want to tell stories that feel personal yet universal—films that make you laugh, cry, and reflect,” he concludes.
Final Thought: A Filmmaker to Watch
With First Time, Adiraj Singh has proven that simplicity, honesty, and a keen eye for human emotions can resonate deeply. As he continues to carve his path in the world of cinema, he’s one to watch for audiences craving stories that speak to the heart.
