Dubai-based filmmaker Saeid Ravanbakhsh, also known as Saeed Ravanbakhsh, made his mark as the Production Manager of the critically acclaimed web series “Kashokhin”, which was directed by Keivan Mohseni. Produced under challenging conditions with a minimal budget, the project showcased Ravanbakhsh’s resourcefulness, creativity, and leadership skills.
Here is a link to Saeid Ravanbakhsh’s IMDB Page: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10976482/
Kashokhin was the first major collaboration between Saeid Ravanbakhsh and Keivan Mohseni, establishing a professional partnership that has continued to thrive. The duo later worked together on several successful projects, most notably the “Peykan in Dubai (Germax)” campaign, which went viral and achieved over 26 million views across social media. They are now co-leading VoidX Creative Agency, a Dubai-based company specializing in creative marketing and high-quality film production.
The Challenges of Producing “Kashokhin” in Dubai
Creating Kashokhin in Dubai on a shoestring budget required creative problem-solving and effective negotiation. Saeid Ravanbakhsh took on the challenge with determination, ensuring the project was completed successfully despite its limitations.
Key Challenges and Solutions:
- Low Budget Production:
Without a substantial budget, Saeid Ravanbakhsh had to find cost-effective solutions to keep the project moving. His ability to negotiate sponsorships and secure affordable resources was essential. - Acquiring Sponsorship Deals:
– Caspian Restaurant (Food Sponsor): To cut down on food expenses, Saeid Ravanbakhsh secured a sponsorship contract with Caspian Restaurant in Dubai. The restaurant agreed to provide food for the entire cast and crew throughout the filming process. In return, Caspian Restaurant received sponsorship credit and publicity, making it a mutually beneficial partnership that saved the production team a considerable amount of money.
– Advanced Media (Camera Equipment Sponsor): Recognizing the need for high-quality camera equipment, Saeid Ravanbakhsh approached Advanced Media, one of the leading suppliers of professional filmmaking equipment in Dubai. Through a sponsorship agreement, Advanced Media provided essential camera gear at significantly reduced costs, allowing the project to maintain a high production standard despite budget limitations. - Leveraging Student Resources:
As a student at the American University of Sharjah (AUS), Saeid Ravanbakhsh used his Student Card to gain permission to film scenes within the university area. This clever move saved considerable costs while providing an authentic setting for certain parts of the series. - Casting Diverse Actors:
Finding the right talent was critical to the project’s success. Ravanbakhsh casted five professional actors from various nationalities, including:
- One Russian actress
- Two Arab actors
- Two Iranian actors
This diverse cast brought authenticity to the story, making Kashokhin relatable to a broader audience.
- One Russian actress
- Sourcing Equipment & Lighting:
With minimal resources, Saeid Ravanbakhsh managed to source the necessary equipment and lighting at affordable rates, ensuring the series maintained a professional and cinematic look. - Location Scouting in Dubai:
Dubai’s rich and varied landscape was a vital element of Kashokhin’s storytelling. Ravanbakhsh was responsible for finding and securing suitable locations, enhancing the series’ visual appeal despite budget restrictions.
The Success of Kashokhin
(Image: Poster of Kashokhin)
Kashokhin’s IMDB Page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10939496/
Despite its challenging production, Kashokhin achieved international recognition and was featured on several major streaming platforms, including:
- Amazon Prime
- Apple TV
- Tubi TV
Saeid Ravanbakhsh’s role as Production Manager was instrumental in making the project a reality. His ability to negotiate sponsorships, manage logistics, cast diverse actors, and scout prime locations contributed to Kashokhin’s success.
A Lasting Partnership with Keivan Mohseni
Kashokhin marked the beginning of a successful collaboration between Saeid Ravanbakhsh and director Keivan Mohseni. Following the project’s release, the two creatives continued working together on various projects, including the viral “Peykan in Dubai (Germax)” campaign.
Today, Saeid Ravanbakhsh and Keivan Mohseni are co-leading VoidX Creative Agency, where they continue to produce high-quality films, innovative marketing campaigns, and creative content for brands across Dubai and beyond.
Reflecting on Kashokhin’s Journey
Speaking about the project, Saeid Ravanbakhsh shared:
“Kashokhin taught me that creativity and persistence are more powerful than budget. We made up for the lack of resources with passion, resourcefulness, and hard work. The project was a true test of problem-solving and dedication.”
The success of Kashokhin served as a stepping stone for Ravanbakhsh’s growth as a filmmaker and creative entrepreneur. His journey from struggling with a low-budget project to becoming an award-winning filmmaker and co-founder of VoidX Creative Agency continues to inspire filmmakers throughout Dubai, the UAE, and beyond.
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