Author Salman Rushdie & Rob Milazzo at the SVA Theatre on April 9, 2016

On Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 8pm The Modern School of Film’s founder Robert Milazzo hosted the celebrated author Salman Rushdie, the creator of twelve internationally esteemed novels, including MIDNIGHT’S CHILDREN (Booker Prize), SHAME and THE SATANIC VERSES – as he revisits three films that have inspired his journey as a transcendent literary force.

Rob Milazzo addressed the crowd by sharing what programs SVA Theatre and The Modern School of Film has during the year. This program is one of the many that venues such as these have each. Upon the conclusion of the address from Milazzo, he gave an abbreviated introduction for Salman Rushdie.

Upon taking the stage, it was clear that the two film lovers had equal admiration for one another. Right away, Milazzo asked Rushdie about some of his work then they naturally transitioned in to discussing some of the films he admired. During the talk, Mr. Rushdie discussed the films Satyajit Ray’s PATHER PANCHALI, Spielberg’s RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK, and Wes Anderson’s THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL.

For the IN: PICTURES, the audience were treated to clips of each film, along with an in – depth discourse with Mr. Rushdie on how cinema has shaped both his work and the continued legacy of this master of genre, form, and modern storytelling. The audience which was full of filmmakers seemed to be fully engaged as well as a bit starstruck from the work and advice given by Rushdie in his responses and reviews of certain films.

Although, the talk ran a bit late, the audience did not seem to mind since there were a few questions that followed. The School of Visual Arts has been a leader in the education of artists, designers and creative professionals for more than six decades. With a faculty of distinguished working professionals, dynamic curriculum and an emphasis on critical thinking, SVA is a catalyst for innovation and social responsibility. Comprised of more than 6,000 students at its Manhattan campus and 35,000 alumni in 100 countries, SVA also represents one of the most influential artistic communities in the world.

For more information on the SVA Theatre visit, their website. In addition, the website for the Modern School of Film‘s website is also a great resource for similar programs.