This month, Filmmakers Connect celebrates the remarkable talent of Riya Agarwal, a storyteller whose unique voice is reshaping the narrative landscape. A graduate of NYU’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts MFA Graduate Film program, Riya has already collaborated with some of the industry’s finest, including acclaimed directors Anurag Kashyap, Nandita Das, and Ashvin Kumar. Her artistry extends across genres, from her music video Yeh Duniya, which premiered at the New York Indian Film Festival, to her award-winning screenplay, If You Show Me Yours I’ll Show You Mine.
Riya’s latest project, If You Show Me Yours I’ll Show You Mine, is a coming-of-age story set in a South Asian immigrant family navigating life in the U.S. The story unfolds as 13-year-old Niki, eager to embrace adulthood, concocts a plan to watch an R-rated movie, setting off a chain of events with profound consequences for her family. This heartfelt exploration of morality, cultural identity, and the chaos of adolescence has already garnered accolades, including Best Screenplay at Top Shorts, Best Short Screenplay at LAFA, and Best First Time Screenwriter at Festigious.
In her own words, Riya describes the inspiration behind the film as deeply personal:
"Through conversations with friends and family, I started to realize how people are often misunderstood if their actions aren’t looked at with context. My upbringing in India, more sheltered compared to the western world, shaped my understanding of sexuality, morality, and growth. These themes, especially the gray areas of confusion and exploration, have inspired much of my work, including this film. It’s my way of delving into these complexities and making sense of them."
Beyond her directorial work, Riya continues to make waves in the industry. She is currently an Associate Producer on two feature films in development—Wager$, produced by Sway Bhatia (Succession, Mighty Ducks), and QLC, written by Marnie B., daughter of screenwriter Paul Bernbaum. She also serves on the screening committees of prominent festivals like Woodstock Film Festival and BendFilm Festival.
Riya Agarwal’s ability to craft deeply personal yet universally resonant stories sets her apart as a rising talent in the world of film. Her work invites audiences to explore the complexity of human relationships and cultural identity with empathy and curiosity—a journey that promises to captivate for years to come.
Follow Riya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riya.agarwal124/
Website: https://riyaction.com/
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