**Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy’s Journey in Hollywood: From DVF to Star Wars**
Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, a name synonymous with powerful storytelling, has carved a unique path in Hollywood. Her journey, marked by a blend of documentary filmmaking and big-budget productions, reflects her commitment to highlighting marginalized voices and exploring complex narratives. From her early days in Karachi to her current projects in Hollywood, Obaid-Chinoy’s career is a testament to her versatility and dedication.
Obaid-Chinoy’s recent work includes co-directing the Hulu documentary “Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge” with Trish Dalton. The film offers an intimate look at the life of the iconic fashion designer, Diane von Furstenberg. The documentary begins with a raw and unfiltered scene of von Furstenberg applying makeup, a moment that sets the tone for the film’s candid exploration of her life.
“Diane has a beautiful saying that I carry with me: ‘You should wear your age — it’s your experience,’” Obaid-Chinoy shares. This philosophy resonates deeply with her, as she navigates her own journey in a culture where women often feel pressured to hide their age.
Obaid-Chinoy’s ability to capture vulnerability is evident in her previous works, such as “Saving Face” and “A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness,” both of which earned her Academy Awards. These documentaries delve into the lives of Pakistani women who have faced extreme violence, showcasing Obaid-Chinoy’s talent for telling stories that challenge societal norms and inspire change.
Her friendship with von Furstenberg, which began in 2012, played a crucial role in the making of the documentary. “I could only do it with someone I respect, and I have tremendous respect for Sharmeen,” von Furstenberg says. This mutual respect allowed Obaid-Chinoy to explore von Furstenberg’s life with depth and authenticity.
Von Furstenberg’s journey from a middle-class Jewish upbringing in Belgium to becoming a fashion icon in New York City is a story of resilience and reinvention. Her creation of the wrap dress in 1974 revolutionized women’s fashion, emphasizing comfort and confidence. “There’s a reason the wrap dress has been around for 50 years,” Obaid-Chinoy notes. “Diane always said it’s women before fashion, meaning it shouldn’t be about the dress, it should be about the woman wearing it.”
Obaid-Chinoy’s own journey began in Karachi, where she started contributing articles to English-language newspapers at the age of 14. Her passion for storytelling led her to Smith College, where she studied economics and political science. The events of September 11, 2001, profoundly impacted her, prompting her to explore how she could help people understand the complexities of her culture.
After graduating, Obaid-Chinoy ventured into filmmaking, despite having minimal experience. She convinced the New York Times’ television unit to employ her for a project following Afghan refugee children. This experience paved the way for her to create documentaries for outlets like PBS and CNN, focusing on the lives of people in conflict zones.
“I became a filmmaker because of 9/11,” Obaid-Chinoy reflects. “I needed to make people see the impact of war, and film became the best way to do that.”
In recent years, Obaid-Chinoy has embraced big-budget filmmaking, directing episodes of “Ms. Marvel” and preparing to helm a “Star Wars” movie. Her work on “Ms. Marvel,” which features the first Muslim protagonist in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, highlights her commitment to diverse representation in media.
Her upcoming “Star Wars” film will center on Rey Skywalker as she leads the Jedi Academy. “The story that interests me most is in Rey’s journey as a female Jedi,” Obaid-Chinoy says. “That’s how I can best bring my experiences to it.”
As the first woman and person of color to direct a “Star Wars” movie, Obaid-Chinoy has faced criticism from some corners of the internet. However, she remains focused on her vision. “The greatest thing about ‘Star Wars’ is that everyone has a personal connection to it,” she says. “I’m just drowning out those voices until I’m done.”
Obaid-Chinoy’s ability to navigate different genres and platforms is a testament to her storytelling prowess. Her work, whether in documentaries or big-budget films, continues to challenge perceptions and inspire audiences.
Her collaboration with von Furstenberg on the documentary is a reflection of her ability to connect with her subjects on a personal level. The film explores von Furstenberg’s relationship with media mogul Barry Diller, addressing rumors and showcasing their deep bond. “This is a real relationship,” Obaid-Chinoy says. “A marriage is defined by the two people in it.”
Von Furstenberg’s willingness to be vulnerable and Obaid-Chinoy’s skill in capturing that vulnerability make “Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge” a compelling watch. The documentary not only celebrates von Furstenberg’s achievements but also offers a nuanced look at her personal struggles and triumphs.
As Obaid-Chinoy continues to make her mark in Hollywood, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers. Her ability to tell diverse stories with empathy and authenticity sets her apart in an industry that often struggles with representation.
From documenting the lives of marginalized individuals to directing a “Star Wars” film, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy’s career is a testament to the power of storytelling. Her work continues to break barriers and pave the way for more inclusive narratives in Hollywood.
Source: Variety, AP Film Writer
