Food Needs No Boundaries directed by Smita Nooreen Khan

By Smita Nooreen Khan

I’m Smita Nooreen Khan, the writer, director, and creator of the sci-fi short film Food Needs No Boundaries, officially selected at the 7 Continents International Film Fest 2025. This film was born from a simple, relatable moment—cooking something special at home and wishing I could share it instantly with someone far away. That feeling of helplessness sparked the idea: What if food could be teleported through a phone call?

I chose the phone as the teleportation device because it's something we all use. I wanted to imagine a future where technology like this is simple, universal, and accessible to everyone. With no big crew, funding, or fancy equipment, I made this film entirely on my own—writing, acting, shooting, and editing everything using just my smartphone and laptop.

Playing both characters, Mili and Shanaya, was one of the biggest challenges. I recorded Shanaya’s dialogue first, then carefully timed and acted out Mili’s responses while watching the pre-recorded video. I used a gimbal for motion shots and a mini tripod attached to my sofa to film the teleportation sequence—where a plate of poori, aloo ki sabzi, and suji halwa travels through the screen. The teleportation effect was created entirely through editing, using light effects and precise cuts.

My goal was to show that even science fiction can be told through emotional, everyday experiences—like the longing for home-cooked food and human connection. I believe storytelling doesn't need big budgets; it needs heart, imagination, and honesty.