From Shelburne to Hollywood: Ben Kahn’s Journey to the Oscars
A Boy With a Dream
In the heart of Shelburne, Vermont, Ben Kahn’s childhood dream of making movies flickered like a flame, fueled by action figures as his cast and a sandbox as his stage. His passion for storytelling through cinema persevered, even in the absence of an audio-visual club at Champlain Valley Union High School. Undeterred, Kahn sought creative outlets, submitting films instead of written papers, eventually collaborating with his father, Tim Kahn, at South Burlington High School’s renowned technology and imaging lab.
The Road to Hollywood
After graduating from CVU, Kahn pursued his passion at Middlebury College, immersing himself in film and video. His early 2000s collaboration with his father on the documentary “The Last Link,” narrated by Willie Nelson, showcased his burgeoning talent. Kahn’s path to Hollywood was unconventional, marked by diverse experiences: working with Rutland filmmaker David Giancola, Northeast Kingdom’s Jay Craven, and establishing his own production company in Portland, Maine. His short film, created for a 48-hour film festival, gained recognition and screened at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Kahn’s career took him to Utah for television shows and Las Vegas for Showtime projects. A pivotal moment came when friend Nate Meyer offered him the role of first assistant director for the 2012 film “See Girl Run,” starring Adam Scott and Robin Tunney.
The Role of a First Assistant Director
The first assistant director, often called the most demanding position on a film set, harmonizes creative visions with practical realities, acquiring necessary gear, and coordinating shooting schedules. Kahn likens his role to an orchestra conductor, guiding a symphony of artisans to bring the creative vision to life.
Collaboration on “Past Lives”
Kahn’s involvement in “Past Lives” arose from a producer who recognized his suitability for the project. The film tells the poignant story of a woman reconnecting with a childhood sweetheart in South Korea while navigating her marriage in New York. “Past Lives” garnered significant recognition, becoming Kahn’s highest-profile film to date. Director Celine Song expressed gratitude for Kahn’s mentorship, while Kahn praised Song’s openness to collaboration and innate talent.
Chemistry Behind the Camera
“Past Lives” success is attributed to its narrative and the harmonious chemistry among cast and crew. Actors credited Kahn and director of photography Shabier Kirchner for creating a supportive environment that fostered authentic and vulnerable performances. Kahn emphasizes the importance of chemistry beyond technical expertise, believing that genuine connections translate into a palpable energy that resonates with the audience. In “Past Lives,” the story of love and choices was amplified by the love and collaboration behind the camera.
A Transformative Experience
Kahn’s journey from Shelburne to Hollywood is a testament to passion, resilience, and embracing diverse experiences. His work on “Past Lives” showcases the power of subtle storytelling and transformative collaboration. As he embarks on his next project, “Materialists,” with Celine Song, Kahn continues to demonstrate the profound impact of chemistry and genuine human connections in the art of filmmaking.