DOI

https://doi.org/10.25772/VVNW-FA43

Defense Date

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts

Department

Photography and Film

First Advisor

Mary Beth Reed

Second Advisor

Noah Simblist

Third Advisor

Mark Boulos

Abstract

Sunlight, Veiled is a narrative short film exploring themes of displacement, class, and identity through the lens of an Iranian intern navigating a morally ambiguous company party in the United States. This written component traces the evolution of the project from development through post-production, while reflecting on the personal and political frameworks that shaped the creative process. Through cinematic references, cultural analysis, and production insight, the paper aims to contextualize the film within a diasporic experience and a growing awareness of social power dynamics. It also reflects on the challenges of filmmaking as an outsider, where self-doubt, cultural translation, and shifting expectations constantly redefine what it means to tell a "relatable" story.

Rights

© Sina Khani

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

5-2-2025

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