Siddharth Chawla Joins 'Dare To Run' as Director of Photography

Siddharth Chawla has been named Director of Photography for Dare to Run, the film adaptation of Amit Sheth's acclaimed memoir. Chawla brings an internationally recognized visual style that has earned praise across U.S., European, and Indian festival circuits for its ingenuity, versatility, and emotional resonance.

Chawla's extensive filmography includes selections and accolades from prestigious film festivals such as Flickers' Rhode Island International, California International Shorts, and jury honors from Berlin, Kolkata, Brooklyn, and Los Angeles festivals. His work spans narrative shorts to genre-shifting features, demonstrating mastery in translating stories of transformation and endurance into visually unforgettable experiences. Previous projects like Remembering Tomorrow, Celeste, and Blood Relations showcase his technical command and creative adaptability—qualities essential to Dare To Run's cross-continental storytelling.

As Director of Photography, Chawla will serve as the film's visual architect, defining and realizing the photographic language that brings Amit and Neepa Sheth's spiritual and physical journey to life. He will collaborate closely with Director Advait Dewasthalee and Production Designer Razan Saylami to develop a visual philosophy rooted in poetic realism and emotional authenticity. His responsibilities will include creating in-depth lookbooks, conducting camera and lens tests, establishing color workflows, and directing lighting and camera crews through both Mumbai and South African landscapes.

The production is being handled by Cinder Block Films, a Los Angeles-based production company known for excellence in contemporary independent cinema. The company has established a reputation for producing films noted for creativity, authenticity, and artistic vision, with work praised within industry circles and by international audiences for dedication to transformative storytelling and visual innovation. Cinder Block Films frequently champions original voices and culturally resonant narratives, attracting talented filmmakers, cast, and crew committed to cinematic quality and meaningful impact.

Dare to Run represents another ambitious project for Cinder Block Films, bringing together an accomplished international team with powerful source material to create a film that blends realism with poetic storytelling. Industry professionals regard the project as proof of the company's continued ability to set creative standards and produce films that resonate with audiences, cementing its reputation as a go-to studio for groundbreaking, inspiring cinema. The company operates on the belief that great stories don't need perfect conditions, just a solid foundation and relentless spirit.

Chawla's leadership will ensure every frame of Dare to Run captures the grit, hope, and transcendent beauty of the source material, making this appointment significant for the film's artistic vision and potential festival success. His track record with festival circuits suggests the film could achieve significant recognition, while Cinder Block Films' streaming platform relationships could ensure broad audience reach for this spiritually resonant story.