Virginie Balabaud - Interview

What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good director?

The absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good director is: the feeling of freedom, the power of persuasion, perseverance, organization, and finding good partners.

First and last cinematographic crush?

The first crush I had is the film "Crash" by David Cronenberg.

The last crush I had is « Dark Waters » by Todd Haynes

How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an director?

I was 30 years old and I was writing a doctoral thesis in psychopathology and psychoanalysis. I watched David Cronenberg's film "Crash." I was mesmerized by the way his film facilitated and enriched the understanding of a complex subject. While a doctoral thesis in the humanities could address the same topic, few people read doctoral theses; it's elitist. However, his film is understandable to everyone; he skillfully handles difficult psychoanalytic concepts. Through his direction, Cronenberg tackles Eros and Thanatos in a vivid manner with a compelling screenplay. Having the choice between science and art, the film seemed to me a more accessible means of understanding, one that popularizes scientific ideas and reaches a broader audience. Therefore, I abandoned my ongoing thesis on the theme of "addictions after a traumatic brain injury" and truly began working on visually representing my thoughts through my first documentaries.

For you a Film is…

A film is a powerful means of conveying our ideas visually and audibly, with emotional impact being just as solicited as intellectual engagement. Building a film is to appropriate the world, taking in everything that has been done and accomplished by others and bringing a fresh perspective. 

Watching a film is to enter the artistic world of an artist, an immersive experience.

What do you feel when you're directing/writing?

When I direct a film, it's about urgency; in the context of documentary filmmaking, it's a way to adapt to reality, to engage with an intimate, personal vision. When I write, time loses its importance. I write the voiceovers for documentaries after capturing the images. For fiction scripts, I'm in an imaginary world where the outside has no impact; I cut off all means of communication to be in my own bubble, where I develop the characters.

You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna watch it?

I would go with Nanni Moretti to see his film "The Son's Room." I want to discuss it directly with him because it addresses themes of disappearance, absence, and what remains of the other through objects.

Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?

Nothing is impossible in imagination, but there are always material and ethical limits.

Can you live just of your passion?

I produce the films I direct myself, and they are currently intended for festivals.

What's more important talent or luck?

Having no luck doesn't help talent!

You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie…

I would bring "The Godfather" by Francis Ford Coppola with me because cinematically, it's a masterpiece at every level: every shot is significant, the editing is very effective, the colors and lighting are beautiful, the performances of the actors are exceptional, the storyline always keeps you on edge,  and you can understand the Sicilian immigration in the city of New York, which city I love.

Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?

No, since it's not my main source of income, art is there to elevate me.

What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?

The best compliment I've ever received is that the analysis of the situations I explore is never judgmental. Indeed, my approach to subjects is more phenomenological in nature.

Are you satisfied about your career?

As I work as a psychologist in addition to being a filmmaker, I don't have the time or the budget needed to carry out all the projects I would like to. Nevertheless, I am happy to have completed the artistic works and to showcase them. Frustration remains a driving force for me.

Do you have a good luck charm?

A four Leaf Clover.

Which is the worst moment on set ?

When there's no more good light for lighting.

How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?

Feeling down, and I fight against it by starting new projects before finishing the one I'm currently working on.

Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

No

If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…

In cinema itself, which has allowed us to express ourselves through this medium.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

Drama.

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

Both.

Which is the best Moment on set?

When I am in the role playing in the world which is created by the director.

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

Sure. Everyone gets that moment I guess, and the strong belief in film and myself help me keep moving.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

Always ask myself why do you come here and what do you want at the first beginning. Stick to the original intention is one of the most important personal values for me.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

Yes, sometimes it's not easy for me to get out of my character even when the film is finished, specially for those who has a strong inner struggle and unstable mental condition. On the other hand, I am not into social things, as an actor, I prefer to spend more time reading books and studying director's ideas, and I love nature and I always embrace every tiny moment while motorcycling across the mountains.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

A blessing.

What would you like to improve about yourself as an

actor?

I hope to improve my acting skills and my goal is to act as natural as I could. Also, better understanding and delivery of my lines means a lot to me.

What's the worst critic you have received?

Having a Taiwanese accent.

If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?

Zhenghao Huang: I'd like to be an architect or interior designer.

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

The color of the sun.

A day without a movie is...

 A day back to nature.

If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despice but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?

No, never. That's not my original intention.

What's your greatest ambition?

Following my heart and always stick to my original intention.

What's your biggest fear?

Waste of time.

Does music helps you to play?

Yes, as when I listen to music, images come to mind.

You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?

 I would take the audience back to their childhood, we can see the world and feel emotions without any language. 

Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....

Zhenghao Huang: First of all, I would like to thank the director and every member of the crew because they made all these possible. I am just the one who presented their hard work. They bring me to the audience and the world. Being an actor is not easy but they bring me the best of luck, yes, I am very lucky to meet all these lovely friends and for sure they are my backbones in my career. Whenever I think of giving up, I am motivated by those who have made excellent movies bring all those beautiful moments to the world, and I wish I could be part of them. I am grateful to the era of films and I want to thank Oscar for being seen, being known and being understood. Also, I want to thank the judges for their recognition, which makes me realize that I am not alone on this path in the film industry, and I am accompanied by all of you. Thank you. Lastly, I want to thank my family and friends who have been with me and supported me all these years. This recognition is not only for me but also for you, and it validates your belief in me. Thank you, everyone.

When did you realised you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?

I realized I wanted to be a filmmaker when I made my first very short film for a filmmaking class at the university.

Do you remember your first time at the Movies?



Not the first time but I remember watching science fiction movies at the local theater when I was very young. The theater was eventually demolished, but that act did not demolish my love of movies.

If you should change country where would you like to work?

My ancestral home country of Italy.

Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…

Casablanca and Chinatown, both for the better.

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

They are important for learning the basics of the filmmaking craft.

Have you ever hated your ambition?

I’ve never hated it. I’ve been frustrated a few times, but I’ve never hated it.

Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?

It depends on one’s definition of “sick”. If sick means to enjoy yourself in an artfully told story, then yes, film lovers are sick. J

Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?

A small theater in a small town, a theater that is a window to the world for the town’s residents. The theater’s façade is shabby, the seats are worn, but the magic is always fresh.

Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?

Alfred Hitchcock.

About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…

My biggest dream is to make a film that many people enjoy, one that becomes part of their lives. My worst nightmare is sitting down to edit a film and discovering that I don’t have all the footage I need.

How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?

It’s very important. Cinema not only entertains us, it teaches us about life, it gives us lessons, it takes us to new places. Cinema is life; life is cinema.

What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker?

My storytelling. I am always working on my craft, learning better ways to tell a story with film.

A big producer give you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of one of your favorite black and white Movie (if you have one)… what film do you choose?

The 1953 science fiction classic “Them.”

Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?

The memories of my mother and father.

Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script".  Do you agree with him?

Partially. To me, script means “story.” Without a good story we have nothing. But once we have a good story, it takes many things to make that story come alive.

 What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

A full-length feature film set in Venezia in the winter.

Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let be more creative?

It doesn’t hurt. Sometimes melancholy unlocks the door to the story you are trying to tell. From those emotions come inspiration.

What do you wish to yourself as a Filmmaker\Actor \Writer?

To entertain, educate, and stimulate the audience. These are the things that drive me as a filmmaker. I want every film to be better than the last.

What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good director and screenplayer?

A practice. You can start writing drama and screenplays when you know what theatre is, what film is, how it works. Since I am participating in this festival with a script, I would rather talk about filmmaking. I started by writing scripts for television series, I worked on several series, there was one series where I wrote 156 episodes alone, they were fifty-minute action films. And because that work required me to be on the set, that's where I learned most. What rhythm a scene should have, what dialogues should be spoken, and what should be left to the actor's performance. Here, while writing the script, you have to think about the acting all the time, you mustn't say everything, because you'll kill the tension, you'll lose the mystery. Later, when I started directing, the scriptwriting got better, because I always imagined what I was writing in the film. But practice is not enough. You have to watch a lot of good films, choose a director you believe in and learn a lot from his films. Young people are coming to me with their scripts nowadays, but they are not good because they lack practice and a passion for a certain style of film. In such cases, I try to involve talented young people in the making of the film, so that they can learn what a film really is.

First and last cinematographic crush?

My first defining cinematic experience was the Bob Fosse film ALL THAT JAZZ, it defined my career. And most recently I saw a wonderful Dominican film that was honest, beautiful.

How old were you when you decided you wanted to be a director and screenplayer?

I was sixteen when I wrote my first theatre drama, which was produced. Then, as the years went on, I thought more and more that playwriting and screenwriting were brothers, just different forms of expression. The content is the same.

For you a Film is...

...is the continuation of a feeling of life, a pain, a joy in art.  It's an opportunity to communicate to a lot of people what I think about the world, what I think about a situation, a human relationship. Either that or it's the continuation of a dream. I dream something that is mine alone at the beginning, and I make a film of it for others to experience.

What do you feel when you're directing or writing?

As a director I work a lot and I see directing as a game. A wonderful actor once said to me on set that I feel like a kid in a toy store when I'm working and directing. Because I always try to surround myself with talented people, be they actors, cinematographers, editors or whatever - directing with talented people is not work, it's fun and play. Very serious play. After all, the audience always goes to the cinema to play, they don't necessarily want to see reality, they see it on the street and at home.

Audrey Hepburn used to say "Nothing is Impossible", what do you think about it?

I totally agree with that. Because there is always a solution to every situation. Just have the patience to find it. The human imagination is infinite, I never give up. And I don't like to work with people who say "it's impossible to do that." I get rid of those people. I'm only interested in people who have at least one answer to every question, but it's good to have two or three. There is no such thing as a lost cause, only a man without hope. And he who gives up hope gives up his life.

Can you live just of your passion?

I can live only from passion. One must love, work, learn with passion. You have to love your family with passion. You have to love your lover with passion. I can't imagine life without passion. But I see now that I have misunderstood the question: yes, I can make a living writing and directing.

What's more important talent or luck?

Talent is more important. And luck either comes or it doesn't. A talented person is talented because he can achieve his goal without luck. And for such a person, luck is not an accident, but a gift.

You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...

Director Ethan Coen's BURN AFTER READING is a film to keep me laughing. Of course, the question is, on a desert island, what device do I play it on?

Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?

I never accepted it, even if it would have cost a lot of money. It's when work comes along that I don't feel comfortable doing or feel it's below a certain standard. My wife is my partner in this and I ask her if I should take on such work. She always tells me not to take it.

What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?

That for a man I write or direct very good female characters in my films. And women have said that.

Are you satisfied about your career?

Career? It's a miracle that I'm alive. But yes, I'm satisfied because I did everything I could. I don't feel lacking.

Do you have a good luck charm?

Yes, I have many objects that I think bring me good luck, that help me in my work. And I keep them with me.

Which is the worst moment on set ?

The end. The end of a good job. The joy of several days or several weeks is over - that's the worst moment. There is an old Italian proverb: "after intercourse, all animals are sad." Something like that.

Have you ever lied to get a job?

Never.

If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to...

I'd say I'm glad I'm an independent filmmaker. Because independence equals freedom. And the most important thing is to be free inside. Every artist, every creator.

What is the one absolutely necessary ingredient to being a good director?

Simple. In the words of Andrei Tarkovsky, you have to focus on something very personal, drawing on the inner world formed by your experiences, plus the legacy you’ve received from your family, society, religion and history. 

Your first and last cinematographic crush?

Chronologically speaking, the first film to sweep me off my feet was "Fantasia"; by Walt Disney, an experience which captivated my senses with its fully orchestrated array of images and the masterfully elegant use of colour, while the most recent work I’ve fallen for is "Mother!"; by director Darren Aronofsky, a visual, allegorical, surreal film whose power comes from both the director’s technical prowess and the way in which Jennifer Lopez seamlessly identifies with her character. Aronofsky is one of the leading explorers of our modern-day obsessions, don’t you agree? 

How old you were when you decided you wanted to be a director?

Ten. I began by making home movies with my sister, who unfortunately has passed away since.She played the part of an elf. I think it’s a pretty standard rite of passage for all directors to script and shoot movies with a little camera among their family and friends.

For you a Film is...

A gift of the spirit that the director offers to those watching in the theatre.

What do you feel when you're directing?

Both extremely attentive and tired, seeing that making films is one of the most difficult jobs in the world. Kubrick, for example, whom I consider to be the best filmmaker ever, would let years go by between one film and the next. He would shoot fifty or more takes of a given scene, and

then edit and reedit everything, until he had achieved an artist purity which, at times, was not initially rewarded, either at the box office or by the critics. When it comes to sheer skill in making films, he is an example and an inspiration for all of us.

If you could go to the movies with a beloved actor, what type of movie would you choose, and with whom would you watch it?

I would love to spend an evening at the movies with my favourite dark lady of the horror-film genre: Isabelle Adjani. Enthralled by her air of mystery, I would join her in watching

Possession, a film directed by the late, sorely missed Andrzej Zulawski. A tortured, inscrutable work, it is one of the more unsettling films I’ve ever seen, and I would hope to gain an even better understanding of its masterful staging, directing and editing. As for Isabelle’s performance, it is one of the landmarks of cinematic history.

Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”. Do you feel the same way?

Life is a never-ending set of variables, so anything can happen. Your luck can turn like a wheel of fortune, which means that anything is possible, as long as you catch the right moment.

Can you live on your passion alone?

Absolutely not.

What is more important, talent or luck?

Talent attracts luck, assuming you’ve prepared yourself properly along the way.

If you had to live on a desert island, and could bring just one movie with you...

It’s hard to say which masterpiece I’d select from the visionary films that, for a variety of reasons, are closest to my heart, but the candidates would include: Kubrick’s ";2001: A Space Odyssey"; and "The Shining";, plus "Fellini’s "8 1/2"; and  "City of Women", as well as Parajanov’s "The Colour of Pomegranates";, and Tarkovsky’s "Mirror";

Have you ever agreed to direct a movie, even if you didn';t like the project?

It happened once, though it wouldn’t be fair to name the film. I was reluctant to go through with it because I didn’t feel personally attached to the project, which led to doubts over whether I could do the best possible job for the producer who had hired me. No other reason.

Whatt's the best compliment you’ve received on your work?

Being referred to as a rebellious filmmaker, due to my unquenchable yearning for experimentation, for pushing the boundaries of the genre of dreamy, fantastical films which

combine horror with creative extravagance.

Are you satisfied with your career?

I am very satisfied with my short film, which is still being shown in festivals, eight years after its premiere. It has won 1008 awards to date, a record for a debut film. Apart from that, it is still too early to say. 

Do you have a good luck charm?

No, I’m not superstitious. I believe that there are positive people who can bring you luck, either directly or indirectly, and so you should stay close to them, both personally professionally,whereas the opposite is true for negative people

What is the worst type of situation to deal with on a set?

As I see it, when a star tries to grab control from the director, insisting that things be done the way he or she wants. Which is not to say that a good actor can’t offer worthwhile advice on dialogue, or even an entire script, something that I myself have experienced. The problem comes

self-centred, troublesome actors believe the film is being made for them and them alone. Before engaging an actor for a project, you need to take a good look not just at their talent, but at their personality too. Otherwise, you risk losing control of the film.   

How do you feel when a project you've been a part of comes to an end?

I want to forget about it and move on to the next challenge, in order to keep growing. An artist should always be looking to develop further. Though, of course, you have to deal with the vagaries of the marketplace.

Have you ever lied to get a part or make a film happen?

No.

If you won an Oscar, your first thought would go to…

I would dedicate it to the memory of my great-grandfather Antonio Machnich, the man from whom I inherited my passion for the cinema. In 1989, he obtained the authorisations that he needed to show films in the theatres, outdoor spaces and indoor venues of the city of Trieste, and

he also worked in Vienna, as a consultant to the historic Pathé film company, helping to open the first movie theatres in Zagreb and in Dublin, where the great writer James Joyce was also involved in the founding of the "Volta Cinematograph"; a theatre which showed six different films a day, to the accompaniment of live music. He was especially active in Bucharest, where he wound up living to the end of his days, founding the"Volta Buzesti" and the "Bristol" theatres. He was an eclectic, courageous, towering figure in the history of cinema, someone considerably ahead of his time. You can read about him, in English, in the book "Roll Away the Reel World - James Joyce and Cinema"; by John McCourt.

How did this curriculum vitae and the diversity in your activities come about, Kristina?

A career usually doesn't follow a straight line. After a project, you don't immediately find a follow-up project. During the gaps I often tried something new. Especially in film, I didn't have enough money at the beginning as a student to pay for an entire team. For these reasons, I did a lot myself. Otherwise, many of the short films would not have been made. 

It seems that you always choose new subjects. Is there a connection within your projects?

I think so. There always are themes that concern me personally. Basically, human relationships are a theme in many of my projects. The theme of the success and failure of bonds comes up again and again.

In your short film "Fear, that the rats rise up", would you describe the relationship as a success or a failure?

"Fear, that the rats rise up" is about a love relationship that fails. There is a lack of trust. Communication fails. The lift, which looks like a prison cell, points to unhealthy control mechanisms within the relationship. The protagonists lock each other up for fear of losing the other. They talk past each other, can't open up, talk in riddles until they don't talk at all. There are small approaches, but it doesn't really get going. Still, neither is ready to leave when the door opens, and so they go further and further downhill in their dysfunctional relationship.

What distinguishes the dysfunctional relationship in "Fear, that the rats rise up" from the relationship in "Cold Thoughts"?

Here, the relationship is actually already in the past. In "Cold Thoughts" a couple is about to break up. They are standing on the corner of a house outside, looking in different directions. They are still connected by what they have experienced together. They can't let go. Yet it is already over. So, they circle around their shared memories. 

And "Findings", how would you describe the relationship here? Obviously, there is no love relationship in the film.

In "Findings", the relationship to oneself is in the foreground. Identity is very much related to one's origins. But it also has to do with the fact that the identity adopted at home is no longer felt to be suitable at some point and that one's own identity has to be worked out first. Working out one's own identity does not always have to be successful. The search for one's own identity and growing out of old patterns, the relationship to oneself are the themes in "Findings".

That sounds thematically very similar to the music video "Breathe on"?

Yes, it is. However, growing up and childhood are not in the foreground here. Rather, something dies in the main character, which can be an old attachment that no longer works. She is in the cemetery; something is holding her there. She simply cannot leave. When she tries to leave, she is always thrown back to a certain place. Eventually she does manage to let go and leave, but only by leaving a part of herself behind. She puts on make-up, puts on sunglasses, disappears behind a social mask. She's gone, but something true, authentic is still left there in the cemetery. 

t's very fascinating how you describe your films from the perspective of human relationships. Can you also talk about your feature-length films? "The Sound of Cologne" and "Unequal"? Do these also have to do with human relationships?

"The Sound of Cologne" is a documentary about the electronic music scene in Cologne from Stockhausen to today. At first glance, this film doesn't seem to have that much to do with interpersonal bonds. Nevertheless, it was important to me to describe the influences of the musicians on each other, especially the influence of Stockhausen and Can on the following composers. Even if artists want to distance themselves from these beginnings of electronic music, they still relate to it and are influenced by it. It was important for me to show the network between the artists and to work through the influences of the city of Cologne to the music within. Unequal" is a film about a girl with a psychological disorder. She has a multiple personality disorder. The four people living inside her eventually realise that they are not real. We asked ourselves the question what would happen to a person when they realise they are not real? Again, it's about interpersonal relationships. These non-real characters eventually meet their real doppelganger. It's basically about bonds that break due to psychological disorders.

And last but not least: Your first short film "This is my Body" is centered around a love triangle. Again, it is clearly a relationship drama. But why doesn't the newly found couple simply break away from the old drama?

That's a good question. I think the man is unable to separate from the woman for the new woman. And so, everyone suffers. The suffering is also reflected in the eroticism of the new couple. It is influenced by the inner suffering of the former partner. This woman appears between the two again and again, disrupting the new happiness. The man wants to keep both women, the women are focused on each other. It's basically a classic. 

Thank you for the exciting interview. I hope you will do many more projects. These films have impressed us very much, especially in their metaphors and profundity.

When did you realised you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?

First at all, I’m not a profession Filmmaker, Actor or Writer. My passion is capturing underwater footage for creating videos or documantarys. So since I started diving, I always hat my camera with me. This was in Year 2011. You have to understand, that I my creations it´s not possible to take several shots from the same scene. Absolutely everything is improvement.  Especially for my newest documentary “Journey to Ithaka” its not possible to take a second shot from the scene, because when the lift bag is going up from 30m to the surface, it´s over. There is no second chance.

Do you remember your first time at the Movies?

Yes, it was around Christmas in the early 90´s in a really small village in Tyrol / Austria. Originally the Movie was released in 1955 - Lady and the Tramp (in German: Susi und Strolch)

If you should change country where would you like to work?

 I don’t have a favourite country, I want to work where I’m needed as underwater videographer and editor. It´s Mexico, Croatia, Greece, Italy, France.

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

Have no contact points and I did not know anyone.

Have you ever hated your ambition?

Yes, on every project because I’m a perfectionist and sometimes it´s really hard to meet my requirements. I´m focused all the time, the first and last one at the filming area. For me it´s stress, but a good stress.

Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people” … was he right?

In a certain way yes …

Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?

 I see popcorn, coke and a lot of happy peoples.

Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?

I do everything by myself – YouTube helps a lot.

About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…

Let´s start with the nightmare first. It was during a clean-up project in Croatia. I just had on cam for surface content and underwater content. That mean I have to reassemble the surface setup that I can bring the cam into my underwater housing. That was on the Boat / offshore because content for dressing up was needed. After capturing some scenes, I prepared myself and the underwater setup. In a depth of 60m I recognised that my system was not working. Because of the stress level the setup was not assembled correctly. So for that dive, I had no footage. Another nightmare was a flooded housing in a Mexican cave. It was the first dive there and the plan was to create a nice short documentary. I brought 23kg of video equipment to Mexico. The housing was irreparable broken. No single picture or video I brought back home. My biggest dream is “Journey to Ithaka” because I won actually 5 awards and that means a lot of peoples can see what “Health Seas” is doing

A big producer gives you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of one of your favourite black and white Movie (if you have one) … what film do you choose?

I´m too young for black / white movies 

Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?

It’s me.

Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script". Do you agree with him?

I usually don´t work with scripts.

What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

Doing a cave project documentary. Means bringing the gear with support deep into the cave.

Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let be more creative?

For myself I can answer yes. Sometime I had teas in my eyes while editing “journey to Ithaka”

Thank you Mr Skigin for being here with us, tell us a bit about yourself (Education, where do you come from? Your occupation and projects)

Born in Russia, went to school in Western Germany in 1990, then in Switzerland from 1996 where I graduated at the University of St. Gallen. Had to take over my father's affairs in 2003 to come back to Russia. Became the chairman of the board of directors of the St. Petersburg oil Terminal in 2007 and held this position for 15 years. Since 2003 have become an investor in different projects and fields like pharmaceuticals, vessels, 3d printing and movies.  

When and why did you decide you wanted to be producer?

I never thought of becoming a producer until a dear friend suggested me a book. This book was an outcry of a highly intellectual Russian journalist, philosopher and cofounder of the martial art now called Sambo named Solonevich. He was the first to escape a concentration camp and tell the world what was really happening behind the iron curtain. I was a quite frustrated that the Russian population was not aware of him and his thoughts. At the same time, I got to know Sergey Debizhev first as a friend and then as a great director. I decided to ask him on his thoughts about Solonevich. Sergey was thrilled about the idea and we founded 2captains. The first movie was a great success gaining many prizes and receiving great feedback from the audience. My hope was to find at least one listener, at the end there were tens of thousands. 

What are what are your favourite films and directors?

I grew up on the movies from the 80ies and the 90ies. I have become a big fan of Stanley Kubrik after attending a course about him at university. Alexey Balabanov, Andrey Tarkovsy, Federiko Fellini, Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorcese and the Coen brothers have influenced me mainly. Movies like Barraca and Samsara are among my favorite documentaries.

The Holy Archipelago is a fantastic work, how did you and the team come up with the idea of creating this project?

My wife and I were looking for a place to find some inner peace. A friend in Dahab suggested to go the monastery called Solovki. We ended up surrounded by staggering wild nature, bright people and peace of mind on a level that was quite divine. We decided to consult Sergey to make a movie about Solovky. We talked and decided to travel there for a longer period of time to dive into the atmosphere before even attempting writing a script. The team stayed for a couple of months understand that some greater power was pulling the strings of the shooting and this someone meant quite well.

Tell us about the film, what is special about it and why should the audience, in your opinion, watch the movie in cinemas?

The movie gives deep insights on the true life in a monastery at the same time it is very picturesque. The viewer will be guided through a scenery combined with eye-opening interviews that touch the inner soul. The information acquired through this experience is lasting and, according to the large amount of reviews, has a meditative effect on the viewer. The effect is magnified when watched in cinema, since the movie has stunning sound and was shot in 6K.

Is the audience only Russian or international? Who would you suggest this documentary to, and why?

I would suggest this movie to anyone with an open heart. I heard praises from representatives of different religions and they unanimously could connect with the messages that were being transmitted. The insights the audience gets about a life in a monastery can be transcended to different monasteries around the globe. It is with dignity, patience and strong belief in God that you can sustain harsh conditions and peaceful co-living for centuries.

The Holy Archipelago has received a lot of awards internationally, how do you think, what is the reason for this phenomenon?

I think that the movie touches the subject of eternal questions in a unique way. You get to know about possible new ways of thinking from people who willingly are ready to live in harsh conditions to be closer to God. All the messages are reaffirmed by stunning shots of nature combined with music from Vyacheslav Butusov. You basically end up being there on this unique island with monks sharing their lifestyle. I guess it is the combination of great shots, music and deep messages that make this movie a one of a kind.

What are your distribution plans for the film?

The film has been the first Russian documentary for a long time to be shown in cinemas around the country. More than 120 theaters promoted the film for over 3 months. Especially the international nominations (13x?) have encouraged us and made us curious to see if the messages from the film resonate in Asia, US and Europe. 

Being producer what excites you the most?

Tell us about your film company, how did you and your team start cooperation?

The company was kicked off in 2013 with a movie about Solonevich called “The Last Knight of the Empire”. We united to finetune the message, the script, the legal framework and much more. We were engaged in a creative process sharing the same dream from day one. We like transmitting thoughtful messages through the art of Cinema. That is our foundation and it turned out to be quite strong.

How do you choose the projects you will work with?

We are developing a set of rules right now that we will publish that will reflect our policy for picking up movies. In a nutshell they should touch a historical component, be educational, have a clear positive message, have no violence and touch the heart. We are working on publishing them as we speak. 

What's your next project, tell us about your new film?

The next project takes the viewer on a journey through Georgia, Egypt, Israel, Ethiopia and Russia in a search for the meaning of the orthodox (and non-orthodox) Cross, its impact on society and culture in each region. It will feature interviews with very insightful monks and, thanks to Alexey Nemov, great shots from above and on the ground. Our goal is to take the viewer on a journey to discover new insights for themselves about themselves.

What do you expect from the future for your film company?

After so many years of exciting existence and hard work, patterns occur that start to form your identity. The film company has grown into the age of adolescence and, consequently, shows personality. We hope to have put in eternal values into this personality, but only the audience can judge on that now.

A producer is made of...

Empathy, self-esteem, patience and love for what is being produced.

For you Cinema is...

A portal to a different world. Every movie has its signature of the creators and sometimes you feel so much love expressed through the art of seeing beauty in small details and in the simple things of life, you end up sharing the same feelings for the same things. If we laugh and cry about similar things in life, we can’t be that different. That is quite reassuring considering the circumstances. Maybe this thought of finding reassurance that there is this unbreakable bond between us draws us to have a look at a different world (worldview). Cinema has a great meaning to me for creating bonds between people. 

Do you think documentaries have a powerful impact?

The impact of documentaries has been growing with the possibilities and availability of technology. Currently you can afford incredible movie shots at a price of an iPhone. That would have been unthinkable 10 years ago. One must have noticed that quite a few people are using their phones for home documentaries. This was quite a task 20 years ago when you had to buy a camera to have more or less decent quality. Using messengers you see people actively shooting movies about themselves and/or their preferences. Many know now, how difficult it is to shoot in nature, ask real people say something meaningful on camera, put love and effort into the creation of the video and get many views. The documentaries are likely to be appreciated in a new way. 

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar with the films you’re producing?

I did not, but my wife shows signs of ambition in that regard. We just love what we do and hope it will be appreciated. Like anyone doing art.

What is the biggest challenge for you?

The balance between being playful in creating messages and the weight of the responsibility that they might have an impact on someone in ways unknown. 

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

Comedy. Good Comedy can rely on sub-text to tell the story's more dramatic side without appearing too strong or preachy. In fact, the lasting impact can be more significant.

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

This is an exciting point of view since my film "Asherah's Colors" takes place in an Art gallery where our two protagonists explore a world of dreams, romance, and colors. I would use the word partnership to make the comparison. There is a union between the two, and they interchange positions seamlessly.

Which is the best Moment on set?

From a director's position, it's when you say "Action." For each scene set-up, most, if not all, of your production crew and the talent, have prepared for the scene. When you say "action," it immediately realizes all the work and potential in the final product.

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

I do it to myself all the time. It's a great motivator and gives you simple gratitude for your life position and the motivation to do your best as a film director.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

When you love an art such as filmmaking, losing focus and getting on with your real Life is more challenging.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

No. In fact, it's a school that goes on forever.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

Neither. It's a potential that needs realization.

What would you like to improve about yourself as an actor/director/screen player?

As a director and a screenplay writer, I aim to write and direct a more visual production. To eliminate as much of the dialogue as possible and to tell the story visually.

What's the worst criticism you have received?

When people tell me what I want to hear. Talk about self-destruction!

If you weren't an actor/director/screen player, what would you like to be?

A Shinto priest, a Shinshoku.

If Cinema was a color, what would it be?

Red.

A day without a movie is...

A lost opportunity. A chance to learn and feel something outside of your reality.

If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despise but will surely make you rich and famous..., would you accept the Job?

Yes. First, it is a movie, and second, the chance to influence it into something you like.

What's your greatest ambition?

It's all about legacy. It's what you leave behind that's important.

What's your biggest fear?

Bad audio.

Does music help you to play/direct or write?

Yes. And it varies what type I play based on the scene, mood, and character I'm attempting to create. 

You have the chance to make a Silent movie; what's your message to the audience?

It would be a message of any type as if there was sound. And if successful, the message would be better and more precise.

Share your speech if you should win an Oscar....

I wish to thank everyone who put up with me and whose support and talent made me look good. My thanks and gratitude are to go out to all of you.

When did you realize you wanted to be a Filmmaker/Actor/Writer?

 I've been thinking about becoming a filmmaker since I was young, but I've been thinking about keeping this dream recently. Through the short film “Gain”, I was grateful to have the opportunity to win awards and interviews at several festivals, and I found out that I wanted to stay in the industry and become a successful filmmaker.

Do you remember your first time at the Movies?

I don't remember very well. However, I can only remember the sweet smell of caramel-flavored popcorn, cushions for children, and glasses for 3D movies.

If you should change country, where would you like to work?

I want to work in the USA. I want to meet the Directors and Cinematographers that I admire, learn from them, and do my own cinematography based on what I learned.

Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…

It's “1917” and “Her.” The One Continuous Shot of 1917 is a great device that keeps the audience immersed from the start to the end of the movie. At the climax of the movie, I cried my eyes out when Scofield climbed the trench with music and ran just crazy. The more I watch it, the more I learn about it, and I want to make a memorable movie by imitating this filming technique later.

In addition, through this film, it was an opportunity to learn about the Cinematographer Roger Deakins, and to study the work his style, the filming method, and the way he use light, and to use him as my role model. The more I studied, the more I found out that he is a great DP, and 1917 was a grateful movie that made me dream of becoming more famous and successful in the future, creating images like Roger Deakins and working with various directors.

"Her" inspired a lot of movies that I was thinking of as my next movie. While watching the movie “Her”, I thought I should apply the combination of soft and warm colors made by vintage lenses and two-tone colors in the color scheme in the same series to my next work.

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

I think it's a good place to meet people with similar goals, similar dreams, and to know that there is a wider world, and that there is a wider goal. I also met friends who are talented and who are good at their job at the university I am currently studying. I'm grateful that there's a lot to learn from them while working with them.

Have you ever hated your ambition?

When I first entered university, I honestly hated my dream. I had a dream firmly since I was young. And I came to university to realize that dream to my heart's content, but when I found out that I had a lot of money to spend on me in the future, I thought about giving up my dream and going somewhere else.

Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?

I think it can be used as a sick meaning cool. Maybe because I like making movies, I think it's cool to see people who like the process of making movies together or people who like the movie itself.

Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?

A red sign reminds me of a sign that says Cinema shining with a tungsten light bulb.

 Who’s the Director/Actor/Writer that taught you the most?

It is Soobin Kwon, director of the short film "Blooming." I became the Director of Photography for the first time in "Blooming". I kept shooting with a camera before that, but I was very nervous and burdened by the role that I had to visualize the director's thoughts on a big set of scale. Fortunately, the director taught me slowly one by one, helping me from the Pre-Production to the time we wrapped up the film shooting, and thanks to this, I was able to finish the shoot well and hear good results of this film at the film festival.

About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…

My biggest dream is, of course, to win an Oscar. Whether it's a movie I directed or a movie I participated in as a cinematographer, winning the Oscar is my biggest dream.

My biggest nightmare was when I entered my first film set when I was in my second year of college. At first, everyone is immature right? As a Camera crew, I had to install Dolly with my team, but I woke up when we had to gather. Since then, I had made mistakes such as leaving the wireless follow focus Unit in another location. I still remember that time as the scariest memory.

 How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?



I think it is important to have a good Cinematic Culture that can be applied in various situations. As you already know, filming is working with various variables. If you have a good Cinematic Culture, you will be able to solve various variables that occur in the field according to the method at any time without being embarrassed.

What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker?

I will watch a lot of pictures, paintings, and movies of the shot. As my professor said, studying is "seeing, and looking a lot" for us.

A big producer gives you the chance to direct/to play (in) the remake of one of your favorite black and white Movies (if you have one)… what film do you choose?

Modern Times by Charlie Chaplin. I saw this movie when I was in middle school. The Modern Times, which satirized the life and chaotic times of modern people working mechanically after the Industrial Revolution, became more aware of the meaning of the movie as they grew older.

I think that cynicism, individualism, and selfishness are prevalent in modern society now. I want to remake it by satirizing it like the Modern Times.

 Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?

My girlfriend, and famous and successful directors and DPs such as Bong Joon-ho, and Roger Deakins.

Thankfully, my girlfriend always tells me, "I'm so happy whenever you win at a film festival. You are so talented, and you will surely achieve what you want." It is very grateful to have someone who supports your dream and is with you.

Also, looking at famous and successful directors and DPs such as Roger Deakins and Bong Joon-ho, I always imagine, "I want to become famous, succeed like them, spread my name, and make a movie that many people like." I imagine the future so specifically when I get tired of this industry.

Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script, and the script".  Do you agree with him?



Yes. No matter how good Mise-en-Scène, no matter how good the lighting, no matter how good the framing, and how beautiful the image is, it's not a good movie if the story isn’t interesting, attractive, and not good. The technical parts of filmmaking are really the technical parts. I think the technical part can be improved together only when the script is good.

What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

 I have to make a short film for my university workshop subject project next year. Currently, I’m preparing a work under the name of 'Love Dream' or ‘Libesträume’. I think this is the most ambitious project as it has been prepared for about two years. I hope my professor will listen to the pitch of the work and give permission to produce this work.

 Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy lets be more creative?

I don't think so. I think that sadness or melancholy emotions can be buried in those kinds of emotions if they do something wrong.

What do you wish for yourself as a Filmmaker?

To not give up on this dream and achieve my dream by enduring it even when I have a hard time.

What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?

There are so many different ingredients needed to be good in all of the above. I believe determination, hard work, and discipline are all necessary when trying to be good at acting, directing, and screenwriting.  It’s a field that in order to succeed there is a lot of tedious repetition of doing the same scenes over and over again . Similarly, , when it comes to screenwriting it’s long hours and revisions of the same story.

How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?

I knew as young as seven years old I was going to work in the motion picture business as an actress , screenwriter and filmmaker.

For you a Film is...

For mean a film is a masterpiece that connects all humans on some emotional level. Whether it’s a comedy that uplifts one through laughter or a heroine story which captures inspiration, a film is a bridge to connection to the human spirit. It also provides hope and the possibility  that one day a dream will  come true.

What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?

I feel like I am on top of the world when I am doing all of the above. I feel a sense of escape from the stress of daily life and the expectations that society places on individuals.

You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/ that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna whatch it?

I am not really sure who I would choose because there is just so much talent . The type of movies that I love to watch are the genres that I write about like Romance, Drama, Mafia, 1920’s, and historical fiction.

Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?

I completely agree . Your potential in life is all determined on your mindset and who you surround yourself with, so you can make your dreams come true. If your mindset is limiting and has negative thoughts , most likely it will yield undesirable results. You are always what you believe you are! 

Can you live just of your passion?

I believe you need more than just passion. Everyone needs support, encouragement and the right foundation to build upon their passion and talent.

What's more important talent or luck?

I think without talent you don’t have luck. They are both important and luck brings the opportunity to spotlight talent.

You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...

I love the classic movie Good Fellas. It’s been such inspiration in my feature award winning script “ Lucky in Long Island.”  

Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?

No I will not act, write, or direct anything my heart and soul does not connect too. To be in any movie takes more than a 100 percent work effort so your heart has to be in it. 

What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?

That I am an amazing storyteller, actress, and an award winning screenwriter.  The best compliment is every time I receive an award in a film festival.

Are you satisfied about your career?

I think “satisfaction” the term is paired better with an experience versus a career. A career is always evolving no matter how accomplished you become, so satisfaction would not make sense because a true expert will never be satisfied. 

Do you have a good luck charm?

I don’t have anything in particular. I am pretty spiritual and I love to wear jewelry that brings good energy, and has meaning to my life.

Which is the worst moment on set ?

I don’t have any particular moments to discuss, however if you keep filming the same scene and it’s not coming out the way the director likes it could be frustrating.

How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?

I think it’s a beautiful thing. When one door closes another door opens. Every road and detour in the journey leads to something bigger and brighter.

Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

There is no need to lie, because the universe will always open up doors when you do the right karma.

If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…

If I was to win Oscar , I would know that my perseverance , dedication, attitude, and talent got me there. Winning an Oscar is the ultimate culmination of one’s journey, how far one climbed up those mountains, and managed to stay afloat amidst a bleak forecast. Being in the motion picture business is perhaps one of the most cutthroat industries to survive in. It’s those that know they are there for the long haul, and their passion is the motion picture business and reaching audiences worldwide to make a difference.

When did you realised you wanted to be a Filmmaker?

Throughout my childhood (i think about 5 or 6 years old), I fell in awe of storytelling and the beauty of diversity. Fast forward to now that passion has now being expressed within my filmmaking and its 

Do you remember your first time at the Movies?

I don't remember my first movie at the cinema but I was always watching VHS tapes (when we had no remotes nor could we remember where we left off) Some of the movies in black and white; old school classics like Laurel and Hardy and BedKnobs and Broomsticks 

If you should change country where would you like to work?

Oooooo, that's a good one. I don't know how to choose ahaha . But if I could pick one country, I would  say choose either Dubai (either to work or visit) or maybe Australia (as long as there's not many insects or spiders, I can work with that)

Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…

I've never been a big fan of horror movie (I always say to people, everyone watching is paying for their own medical bills, as I'm quite an expressive and naturally jumpy person, so you may have a few heart attacks) So my first horror movie was Room 1408 with Samuel L Jackson. I was always screaming and jumping every few seconds (no joke) so no one could enjoy the movie. A movie marked my life for the better? Ooooooo there's so many. To name a few Treasure Planet(animation, I love SciFi; awaken my kid like spirit when it debuted) She Did That! (Documentary directed by Renae Bluitt; reminding and revolutionizing the importance of women entrepreneurs. As well a black woman entrepreneur myself reminding our importance and value even when we get mocked and ridiculed globally) 

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

I think Acting/filmmaking schools are essential and i'm grateful for them(that's how I was able to grow more in confidence, find and solidify my own voice ). They give emerging professionals and creatives steward their crafts on a personal level. But this comes as an extent and can limit you to a point. When the basic foundation of finding who you are (the real YOU, which we all have a tendency to want to hide) that is the foundation laid firmly for you to change and adapt accordingly for you to grow and stabilize your mark within the industry . This allows you to pinpoint where your passion is (your passion) , how you filter your ever-changing environment (your live) and the lens you see the world in. Embrace that lens of how you see and don't shy away from that because you may be speaking to a blind spot for someone to allow them and yourself to grow even more to you calling and destiny God has ordained for you 

Have you ever hated your ambition?

OMD YES! (OMD means Oh My Days, same meaning as OMG ahaha) because the one thing I still struggle with is the right balance. That balance to rest and recover (without feeling guilty as its quite necessary) before continuing to work on the next project. Kinda makes me quite stubborn in this area. Because all I want to do is create but I can't create something meaningful on an empty well space (empty heart with no drive nor passion)

Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?

You know I've never heard that before but I love the concept. In a way we are all sick and ill in an area of our hearts. Sometimes we choose to ignore that and wonder why the symptoms are there, as well as getting worse. Films are an gracious and creative example of expose and illuminating our symptoms of our hearts and how we individually guard them under God and walk into all who God has created us to be.

Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?

I see the big red curtains revealing all that we (the audience) have been waiting a long time for. With all the food, drinks and treats spread out like a personal buffet 

I hear a mixture of noise, lots of people laughing, talking, planning….etc. First time experiences on seeing something brand new that was never noticed before 

Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?

I have pretty much been a sponge in regard to learning. My mother always taught me you can learn from all ages (younger and older than yourself) . It depends on what you choose to take; digest from what has been spoken and filter it in seeking out its truth behind. Now returning back to the question, (going around the houses) I don't I can just pin point  who taught me the most. A few of my friends;  (fellow creatives and are currently working within the industry) have been the most influential to me and have taught me the most. Through the ups and downs of live, they have kept me grounded and kept me accountable with my internal blind spot  . 

About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…

Ooooooo. This question is like a bittersweet one. Because my dream is also a nightmare for me simultaneously. My dream is to be able to redeem back REAL in Reality TV and allowing other creatives to do the same,within their respectable fields of entertainment. No exaggeration or drama. Just authentic, raw and respectful conversations that are needed to be talked about more often. The nightmare portion of it not just the audience aspect, but the culture clash of perfectionism and filters are making it difficult to continue  

How important is it to have a good Cinematographic Culture?

To have a solid foundation on cinematography is key, especially within a fast paced environment when time  is money. But being able to grow even further will allow the production to run smoothly; as well you are becoming adaptable when difficulties arise. The industry is always evolving quickly (sometimes I can't keep up) so as we work, we learn and vice versa. Also keep learning from each other and everyone. (Veterans, emerging professionals alike) so our end vision for the product is served out the best possible work we can 

What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker?

As we just spoke on it previously, cinematography and equipment setting (like creating templates on software and hardware) I only have some basic knowledge around this topic and i'm always wanting to learn more (like a sponge, always written notes to look back on later) with different opportunities that comes my way and will become more easier with the practices I have.

A big producer give you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of one of your favorite black and white Movie (if you have one)… what film do you choose?

Ahahaha. I love that. I grew up on Laurel and Hardy; as well as Dad's Army (A group of soldiers recruiting and preparing for WW2, kind of slapstick comedy) I think I would love to remake one of those as a movie

Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?

Ironically this was me a few days ago. I won't be able to pinpoint just one person. As there my prayer group (brothers and sisters in Christ) always providing me with encouragement and leading me back to what God has told me and keep me going; My mum, (always calls everydays no matter what, like clockwork); karaoke family (always there to make me laugh and remind me that life is worth living).  There are so many to mention but within this season, these guys and others as well are my ohana and have been pushing me in my faith (even within those times when the tunnel was too dark to see the end of it) and for that I am truly blessed to have them in my life 

Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script".  Do you agree with him?

I mean, there's an importance but it all goes down to its interpretation and its reception. The script can be a masterpiece with all the techniques (plot twist, cliff hangers, build…etc) but its within adaptation where we can decipher the true intention of the film. For example you can take a Shakespearean play, have someone translate it and give it to 5 different directors/production teams and I can guarantee you it would all be shown in ways you never would have thought of. That's the freedom and beauty of diversity. It's OK to not agree and to not understand it all but being appreciative of their hard work, passion and dedication goes a long way.

What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

My most ambitious project would be to write or help produce a feature film. There's a few script ideas that I have (taken a break from it, but will return soon to it) that would a few years down the lines and collaborate with other emerging professionals and creatives as a home grown community project 

Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let be more creative?

Ok, i'm going to be honest (as this will be a controversial opinion) , I think this emotion is one of that we learn sometimes the most important life lessons from, but its highly over-played and overrated when it become creativity (let's be real, it's where most of money is created and produced from, well that and sex but that's a whole other topic). There are other emotions we forget (I do this a lot, I'm guilty of this), we can only experience by living our lives outside; waiting for us to learn from and we can be creative from. I remember flicking through social media (as you do)  watching an interview with Lauryn Hill and this pressure she had from the entertainment industry to produce another album and she talked about the importance of living and incubating from those experiences, which influences you in producing your most inspiring; influential work from being present and unapologetic with your emotions and its exposure in a healthy and healing way. 

What do you wish to yourself as a Filmmaker?

As a Filmmaker, I would love to collaborate more with home grown artists within the creative community; grow alongside them and myself too.

One day(alongside other visionaries)I would love to create more safe spaces for other creatives to express and have the support they need. Passing down stories and wisdom to pass the torch down, for the next creative pioneers to have a foundation to build from as a new starting blocks for future generations to thrive and blossom from.

What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?

 think that to be a good director, you have to be able to follow your intuition, you have to be able to transmit desire ;  you have to have the need to create and tell a story, the fire, the faith to be patient and stay focused. 

First and last cinematographic crush?

I don't remember my very first crush, I started seeing films when I was very young, and a lot of them made an impression on me, especially  THE POSTMAN by Michael Radford's  and I really liked Valeria Bruni Tedeschi's latest film, LES AMANDIERS 

How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?

I started wanting to tell stories and film when I was a photographer, around 25 I think. 

For you a Film is...

For me a film, i mean a good film is light, it must enlighten the mind; it must arouse emotions, it must be aesthetically pleasing, inspiring to look at and feel. It must be effective and go straight to the heart of the observer, I think a good film should be sensory, an experience that awakens the senses. 

What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?

I love my passion, my work; i'm just having fun but seriously. 

You can go to the Movies with a director you love. 

What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna whatch it?

I like very different styles of film, especially melodramas, and I like films about love. I couldn't choose one person I admire to see this film with; Fellini!  but he's no longer with us. 

Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?

 think you have to believe in your dreams and do your best to avoid regrets later.

Can you live just of your passion?

Making films is not my only job, but I'd like my passion  to fill my whole life yes.

What's more important talent or luck?

Talent is subjective, seriousness is objective, I believe in perseverance and I think you have to make your own luck, not be afraid. 

You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...

I think I'd take a film  that makes me laugh and that I can't get enough of. I really like  Cuisine et Dépendances by Philippe Muyl, Io e Caterina by Alberto Sordi, Pensavo fosse amore invece era un calesse by Massimo Troisi.

Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?

I like some projects more than others, but I haven't worked on projects i didn't like. I believe that all projects can interest me if I am free to express myself.

What's the best compliment you have received about your Job? 

I receive a lot of messages of support, and it gives me great pleasure when people tell me that my world is inspiring and poetic.

Are you satisfied about your career?

I'm still developing my career, so I'm not totally satisfied yet. I'm going to make my first feature film and I want to make others after the first one as long as I'm inspired. I have a team that I trust, and that's very important ! 

Do you have a good luck charm?

My lucky charm is my positive thinking.

Which is the worst moment on set ?

The worst moment is when you're nearing the end, I never like endings

How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?

I don't like endings, teamwork for me is like spending time with my second family creating memories, I'm very attached to the people who support me

Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

No, I haven't had to lie to get a job yet ! 

If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…

If I win an Oscar, my thoughts will be to my family who have always supported my dreams, to my team and my producer, i admire the work of producers.

When did you realised you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?

I grew up in the movie business.  With my parents, we traveled to wherever the movie they were working on was shooting.   I knew I wanted to be in this business too!



Do you remember your first time at the Movies?



I'm not sure it's the very first time but I do remember going to the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood and seeing "Dr Doolittle" (The original) - it was a huge screen and magical.

If you should change country where would you like to work?



I'd like to work anywhere in the world, that's the beauty of this business that we get to travel!   In my early years of working, I got to go to Hungary, Austria and Brasil for different movies.

Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…

Oh, good question - in my career??  Well, the first movie when I got into the DGA was Terminator 2 - was 7 months of filming in some of the most difficult locations and long days.    Also, George of the Jungle was such fun with all the silly things we go to shoot and we had an elephant and got to go to Hawaii!



What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

I don't know about acting schools.   Filmmaking schools are good for the basics of filmmaking but you really don't learn until you are on the set doing the job.   I believe it's best to start at the bottom and work your way up so you can see all the ins and outs of what all the other crew does to get a show done. 

Have you ever hated your ambition?



Well, when there was a time back many years - I was frustrated, not working and just couldn't figure out how to get a job, I did consider trying to find a new career!   But in reality, this is a fantasic business to be able to work together with so many people to create entertainment.

Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?



I wouldn't say sick.  :)  BUT it is always a mix of quirky, talented people who I'm not sure would fit anywhere else.   Some relate it to the circus!

Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?



I see my childhood traveling to the Bahamas with my parents while my dad worked on Day of the Dolphin - I went to a 3 room schoolhouse for school.  I see going to Louisiana one hot summer with my Mom while she worked on Mandingo.    We went to the Dominican Republic one summer while my dad worked in the jungles on Sorcerer.    So many adventure.  This is definitely not the film school answer but I didn't go to film school.   I lived the filmmaker life with my folks.

Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?



Walter Hill, Director/Writer, I spend 4 + movies with.   He was such a force on the set and besides that, was loyal to his crew and trusted people to do their jobs.    And he has done so much in his life.   I'd love to work with him again.  

About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…



My biggest dream is to produce the movies that I have waiting here in my hand.  I can't think about worst nightmares - but in the past actual nightmares as an assistant directors are wondering if everyone got their call times and is the day going to go well!

What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?



I would like to become a producer but have a lot to learn.    I am editing my documentary now as producer/director and it is quite a project and I've learned a lot.    

A big producer give you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of one of your favorite black and white Movie (if you have one)… what film do you choose?



Young Frankenstein?   Whatever Happened to Baby Jane  - Although 2 movies that should probably never be remade!

Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?

Honestly, it's my mom.   She continually has supported me.   But she has written books and offered them to me to produce, she and I took writing classes together.  I'd love to get my documentary finished and even more so she can see.

Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script".  Do you agree with him?

What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

I do have a script that has The Gambia as a location.   I'd love to be able to go to Africa for the movie.   I think I'll need a great writer to do a pass on my script and a studio to love it enough to want to make it!



Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let be more creative?

No.  If you are creative, be creative!  Don't put yourself in a box of sadness.  



What do you wish to yourself as a Filmmaker\Actor \Writer?

First off, I'm really thrilled that Hey Alexa is so well received.   Although a short film (that I funded myself), it was an original story I wrote myself and somehow pulled off to be what I imagined in my head.   Makes me feel like the other scripts I have, could really be done!   I'd love to get my other work picked up.  My documentary needs funding to do the fine finishing of post production, would be amazing to find a company that would consider it. One step leads to another step, right?   

When did you realised you wanted to be a director\writer?

I started as a scriptwriter, writing a lot of scripts for series or film directors. And I was once given the gift of my first directing job. An excellent Hungarian film director read the script I had written for him and said he thought I could direct it well. And he gave me this opportunity and he became the producer of the film. It's a poetic feature film, the most popular Hungarian actors, a real budget, a real big film. And I could do everything the way I wanted to see the film. Such luck is rare in life.


Do you remember your first time at the Movies?



In Hungary, in the seventies and eighties, cinemas distributed all kinds of valuable American and European films, from Fellini to Truffaut, and only the value of the American film industry. As teenagers we watched these films. I don't know when I went to the cinema for the first time, but I remember the first film that really made an impression on me was DINO RISI'S WHITE  PHONES. After that I was looking for Italian films, I became a lover of neo-realist Italian films.




If you should change country where would you like to work?



In Italy. Either near Venice, or in the south, below Naples, for example in Agropoli.

Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…

One is ALL THAT JAZZ , a film by Bob Fosse, the other is FORREST GUMP.

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

Schools work well when they are taught by real masters. You cannot learn this from books, only from personal examples. The other is if the school lets art students into the world of technique, showing them the technical background of filmmaking. Without this knowledge, neither the screenwriter nor the director can really create something valid. In India I had the opportunity to study acting and directing at the same time. There, the first two years do not decide who will be an actor and who will be a director or writer. It evolves during the education, a very interesting method. In Hungary, actors are trained at university level, which is not good. By the time you get to university, it takes a few years, then five years of university to get a university degree. And in the meantime, the part of his life in which he could play great young roles has passed. It was an extremely bad idea to introduce this.



Have you ever hated your ambition?



Never.

Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?



Even great artists sometimes say stupid things. They have the right to do so.

Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?



A Hungarian cinema, where we organise the annual Pápa International Historical Film Festival and where I am the director. In one of the buildings in the country that is still really only used as a cinema. Cinemas in my country have moved into shopping centres and the real cinemas have disappeared. This is still there. We meet here every year with very filmmakers from all over the world.

Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?



Dino Risi, Bob Fosse, Antonioni, Bunuel.

About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…



Dreams are there to be made real. I have. Over the last fifteen years I have made fifteen feature films, several documentaries, and I have chosen the subject of each one, or rather I have dreamed it. Thanks to those who gave me the opportunity to make it happen. My last three films have won hundreds of festival awards and I go wherever I can, this is another dream come true. To make people from different cultures love my films. My worst nightmare? That one day computer programs will write the script and artificial intelligence will take over the direct role of humans in art.



How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?



Film can be entertainment and it can be art. Both are valid. Good entertainment, good entertaining film, makes life better for millions of people. And for those who want more than that, who want to find true artistic catharsis in a film, it is important that they find their own. But film also has a social role, think of countries where independent filmmakers are persecuted and where film is an expression of social justice. There, film can play a major role in creating freedom and democracy. The emergence of film has been important in the life of mankind because it unites the other arts, theatre, visual arts, photography, architecture, poetry and everything else. Only if it is a good and talented film, of course.



What would you like to improve as a director\Writer?



I don't know, because I work by instinct. I choose subjects or partners instinctively. The films I write and direct always find an audience. Like all art, it has to be understood as a game. Film directing is a game, beautiful and noble, but a game. 

A big producer give you the chance to direct the remake of

one of your favorite black and white Movie (if you have one)… what film do you choose?



I'd love to see Chaplin's film MODERN TIMES staged in today's context. Of course, you would have to find an actor as brilliant as Charlie Chaplin.

Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?

First and foremost my family, especially my wife, who supports me in all decisions and is usually better at deciding between situations than I am.  And because I have had many real masters who are no longer alive, I always think about how they would appreciate a piece of work. I would like to live up to them, even if they are no longer alive.

Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script".  Do you agree with him?



Yes, but only if the scenario includes the possibility of implementation. I also write the screenplay for my films, because I can see the whole film in my mind when I write the script. It's difficult to pass that on to another director because they may not see the same thing. The script alone is not enough. Hitchcock worked from extremely precise and accurate scripts and made very precise and accurate films. He did not deviate from the script he wrote. I give him the opportunity to make changes during the directing process if I see them, or a more valid solution than what was written.



What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

I would love to direct a large-scale dance film with dancers from all over the world. And to make a film without text, with just the images, music and choreography. THE BIRTH OF EROTICS, that would be the title, and it would work on the period in primitive society when eroticism was born. Because I think it was a big part of becoming human. For this film I am looking for a brave producer.

Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let be more creative?

A director of a cabaret theatre told me that I could write really funny cabaret sketches when I was really bitter about something or in an impossible situation. And then I'd find him and write comedy sketches for him. He was right.

What do you wish to yourself as a directorr?

There are a few plans that I would really like to implement. But you always have to focus on the next job. In a couple of weeks I'm going to start shooting a historical film that I've been waiting ten years for, but I've already got the plan for the next film. As long as I can, I dream. And while I dream, I fight to make the dream come true.

When did you decide you wanted to be a director? How did your family react?

It was natural for me to become a director for many reasons: first of all, I have been a producer of several Italian and foreign musical artists, from popular music to jazz, from ancient music to avantgarde. Videos have always been a tool to take music even outside the usual contexts. 

A second reason is linked to my activity as an experimental composer that also pushed me towards the “shores” of mixed music and experimental electronica. At the beginning my family was not enthusiastic about my artistic career. 

Yet I was very determined and I graduated in electronic music, composition and sound engineering. 

Today my works – film, music, poetry- are shown all over the world.

Do you have a Muse?

I do not have a Muse, but since my childhood I have had lots of models. In the artistic field it is normal to have them.

As for cinema I have always appreciated S. Kubrick, Bertolucci, Zeffirelli and I have always been captivated by W. Ruttmann, Hans Richter, Viking Eggeling and Oskar Fischinger that set up or completed a series of abstract films made with different animation techniques, denouncing the attempt to translate sound into sign, to visualize the rhythm through a free play of articulated shapes in the space of the screen.

I’m also influenced by art: my muse here are the masters from Italian Informal artist scenes and authors such as S. Dalì, M. Ernst, G. De Chirico. All these authors have influenced my recent works such as Endless Alphabet, Hidden Sun, Vana Imago, Á Nazaire.

Who's your biggest fan? 

There are several people who support me: composers, musicians, actors, music managers. The list is long and I would not like to mention one forgetting  the others.

What brings you inspiration the most?


I am keen on experimental films. I'm interested in mixing various art forms: from poetry to music to painting. Cinema is an important form of synthesis. I define myself as an intermedial artist.

Which actor or director would you like to work with?


I would accept to work as a composer and sound designer for various known directors.

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?


“Up in the Air” by Jason Reitman; “Apocalypse Now” by F.F. Coppola; “Red Alert” by Peter George; “Dr. Strangelove” by S. Kubrick; “Mr. Holmes” by B. Condon; “Metropolis” by F. Lang; Sideways by Alexander Payne…just to mention some.

What's the movie that taught you the most?
“Dead Poets Society”, a film directed by Peter Weir.“Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary!” It is a real lesson of life.

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything? 

No, never give up. Art is a difficult work, but it can pay you better than other jobs or careers.

And what scares you the most?

Ignorance, baseness and the desire to appear at all costs.

What's your next project?


I’m producing 4 different experimental films and I am engaged in the production of an all-Italian animated cartoon produced with the support of some producers and important Italian voice actors. In these projects I’m working as a director and composer.

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose? 


There  are a lot of people that I deeply admire: R. Scott, S. Kubrick, Spielberg, Tim Burton, J.J. Abrams, Christopher Nolan.W. Ruttmann, Hans Richter, Viking Eggeling and Oskar Fischinger on the experimental side.

For you Cinema is....


One of the greatest art forms because it involves several senses.

Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?


Yes, I do. In B & W movies, tonal variations are caused by the combined action of light, scenography and costumes. Light has the determining functions of forming the grey scale and of separating objects from each other and from the background. On the aesthetic level, however, it gives volume and plasticity to objects, it divides space, marks time (day and night). The lack of color is balanced by chiaroscuro, soft focus, halos, silhouettes, shadows, oblique rays, reflections, bright backgrounds. The absence of color does not mean the absence of meaning; on the contrary, it helps to create narrative spaces by differentiating them in the same location or to articulate the psychology of the characters. Are you suggesting me to make a B & W film?

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?


No, but I could think about it….Dreams are meant to be fulfilled and to come true. I must admit that I'm more into experimental videos but I would like to work as a composer and sound designer for several known directors.

Do you think you're gonna win it? 

I am not used to discuss topics about the future especially my future. My work is silent, I love silence. Silence itself must be filled to become a form of art.

What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director? 

Passion.



First and last cinematographic crush? 

Too many-first may have been Alfred Hitchcock.  Last, Spielberg, Tarantino, Scorsese, David O’Russell-I’m sure there’s a bunch more…too many to list.  



How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/ filmmaker? 

Actor-3 years old.  A psychic told me at 19 that I would end up love being behind the camera, or rather handing all the things behind the scenes later on. She wasn’t wrong.

For you a Film is... 

The way modern civilizations document story telling which is the most primal form of connection that we have as a species, and the most important in my opinion.



What do you feel when you're acting/directing? 

Connected.  In the moment.  Alive.



You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're going to watch it? 


The movie wouldn’t matter if I am with someone I can learn from, be inspired, grow from.  I’d love to go with Tarantino, Spielberg, Scorsese, Deniro, DiCaprio-honestly, again, too many to list.


Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?

 I think that’s true. It takes work, inner evolution at times, perseverance, good instincts/intuition and divine timing but yes I believe that anything is possible.  



Can you live just of your passion?  

Maybe, but I don’t have the personal data to back that up. So maybe no.



What's more important talent or luck? 

Ideally, a happy marriage of the two, realistically, if I had to pick one, luck, however talent combined with a great work ethic doesn’t need luck but it may need time.



You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...

Give me a camera, a way to write, I would want to create content, I think that would keep things interesting. 



Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?  

No.



What's the best compliment you have received about your Job? 

In a recent film review they said my approach to filmmaking is reminiscent of the sensual mastery found in Jane Campion’s “The Piano” or the emotional turmoil explored in Ingmar Bergman’s “Scenes from a Marriage”!



Are you satisfied about your career? 

Never.



Do you have a good luck charm? 

Not really, but I meditate and pray a lot.  Sometimes a piece of jewelry has meaning for me or something like that - it seems to change, it’s fluid.  Not sure why.  But the prayer and meditation practice is a consistent go to.



Which is the worst moment on set?  

On the set of HeArT, when I realized that I hadn’t pre ordered the food for the crew.  I of course did then right away, which was good.  And I got them out an hour early.  I would definitely get a line producer next time!  I will say that having a supportive cast mate such as Josh Berresford and a great skeletal crew-DP,Toru Nishikubo and Sound Director, Zach Travis, made everything POSSIBLE!



How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?  

Depends on the job.  Sometimes it feels good to complete something, other times it feels sad, because it becomes like a family.



Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

I’m sure I have in the past, not recently though, not in a long while

If you should win an Oscar your first thought would go to…  

God.

When did you decide you wanted to be an director?

When I was a young boy at the age of six or seven, as a child, playing with other children between two houses, making something like a theatre, and sometimes more like a cinema with a space both for the audience and the space for the stage levelled a bit higher than a place for the audience, and in our games, I was mostly an actor rarest audience at that theatre.

How did your family react?

They bought me when I was 11 years old an amateur Eumig 8mm camera with accessories and a lot of diverse colour filters.

 It was a very good camera, capable of double or more expositions, returning film tape back and forth, capability for fade in or fade out with several film speeds, with a possibility to choose between 1 to 7 frames for second or 8,16, 24 even 32 frames per second, enough for some basic slow motion or time laps effect, perfect for  stop animation. I learned a lot with that camera.

Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

Yes, many, it will be unfair to mention somebody  and forget not to mention everybody who had some influence or impact on me as a painter or filmmaker or musician.

Who's your biggest fan?

My mother, audience, offcourse, people who like my paintings, music or short films, women, and friends. 

What brings you inspiration the most?

I’ve been a professional painter for a long time, and a musician too, I had to be inspired, and I must be. If I am not inspired enough, I must start with a sketch working on unimportant parts, no matter if is a painting or film or music, and after some time, inspiration comes.

Which actor or director would you like to work with? 

With lot of them 

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

I saw some fantastic book adaptations, for example, Shakespeare’s "The Tempest " 

What's the movie that taught you the most?

There are a lot of films that I like and taught me much,  "Red"-Krzysztof Kieslovski,"Apocalypse Now" - director's cut,Stanley Kubrick whose every film is completely different as genre one from each other "Mulholland Drive ", some Sergio Leones films are very spectacular cinematic, classic as "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly", Bernardo Bertolucci, Michael Cimino,Orson Welles….

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

No, as I am older, I like and want to work more and more and more accurately with more details, sense, etc, want to stay honestly behind my art.

On set what excites you the most?

Depending on the film, I am an author of the music for my films too, film montage is mostly my preferred part.

For my awarded experimental short film "Q1", your festival awarded me too for that film, I made all graphics on the most basic Windows paint program only, Windows paint is not the right tool for making films, but I did it and won awards for the Best inspirational film, the Best experimental film and Best sound design award at several film festivals.

There was no classical set, just me, the mouse, and the computer, at the second stage musical instruments.

And what scares you the most?

Time, I have so many projects that are waiting to be finished, unfinished feature short films, unfinished animated films, a few music videos, a lot of sketches, a lot of unfinished paintings, and a lot of unfinished and not mixed and well or satisfactory recorded music. 

What's your next project?

A short film about coincidences if coincidence exists in a causative consequential way, if everything is not predestinated as some theories point out, some theories as String theory said that everything is conected,other theories said that  the whole space, cosmos is just chaos, with no sense or conection anywhere .That’s why Art is good for.

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

I have my own way, my life, I’ve been a professional painter for a long time, a musician, even professional Dj  , and a composer as well. I could say that I know something about cinema, film and making films, I had, and I have reached artistic life.

Offcourse, it would be a real pleasure to play live 3rd guitar with the Rolling Stones, act the second role in some well-known film director movie or even carry cameras or cables on his set, I like learning.

An actor/director/screen player is made of....

Love for that what he is doing, patience, desire, nerves, courage to experiment, an open mind to accelerate and accept rationally new ideas and caused situations, fanatic sometimes, half of the day to have in mind what he is working .

For you Cinema is....

For me personally, Cinema, in short, is paintings, music, and literature together - symbiosis or product of the above-mentioned parts,  greatest symphony  sometimes .

Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

Yes, as a black and white television, similar as black and white photography, "Citizen Kane", "The Third Man", "The Thin Red Line ", Hitchcock, Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and even "Gone with the Wind " was originally made in black and white, there are many fabulous fantastic excellent black and white movies. Paintings mostly start from a black and white pencil sketch.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

No, never. 

Do you think you're gonna win it?

Who knows, everything is possible. 

When did you realise you wanted to be a Filmmaker?

Born and raised in a theatre practitioner’s family, I got engaged into performance and other creative expressions at an early stage. Over time, as I attended Art institutions as an undergraduate and for my Masters, I developed my interest more in the multidisciplinary practices. Collective, collaborative and performative forms of art fascinate me more. We are all aware that film making is such a practice which assimilates all art forms in one. This very nature of being composite of multiple aesthetics and inclusive of all the art forms pulled me towards filmmaking.  

Do you remember your first time at the Movies?

My late father was a playwright. It was not only important that he used to bring me to the theatres when I was a child, but in a nurturingmanner, somehow he made me realize that watching a film meant something more than just seeing and getting entertained: seeing a film also means getting trained on how to look at things.  

If you should change country where would you like to work?

This is a difficult question for me to answer. An artist’s temperament is always of an explorer. Towards new environments, newer challenges, our approach is always like: Yeah, challenge accepted!  

Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…

Tim Burton’s Big Fish and Tarsem Singh’s The Fall- these two films made me rethink narrativity, reality and representation. Yes, what if my life is nothing but a story (or stories)! 

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

Definitely there are different kinds of schools and all do not operate in the same way. In fact the same school does not remain the same for eternity, there are different ideological eras down the history. What interests me most is the fact that schools of creative practices assimilate young minds from different parts. They become a hub for fresh thoughts. If one considers this fact, the question of a particular school being good or bad turns to be secondary. The schools provide a common space for brainstorming, continuous exchange of dialogues and networking for the future which are more significant than the pedagogical teaching and learning.   

Have you ever hated your ambition?

In fact, almost always (with a smile)!

Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?

Yes, fully agree. But to add on: some ‘sicknesses’ are good for humankind ! 

Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?

Something big. Larger than life. 

Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?

Chaplin (without a second thought). 

About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…

No comment on biggest dream. Worst nightmare- having my digital project file deleted after a  tremendous amount of effort being put into the project. 

How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?

I believe in John Berger’s Ways of Seeing. It was aptly said: “Seeing comes before words. The child looks and recognizes before it can speak.” I was a student of Art History and it made me realize that a rich visual culture was and is inevitably a prevalent element of human civilization. 

What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker?

It is communication. Speaking the simplest language in the most understandable way. But I know, it is difficult. 

A big producer give you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of one of your favorite black and white Movie (if you have one)… what film do you choose?

Possibly Modern Times by Chaplin. Modern Times was after modernism and industrialization, this time it would be set in the post globalization era, or possibly after the emergence of AI. 

Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?

I receive energy from people surrounding me. I am fortunate enough to have come across people with a considerable amount of zest and support. For example, writer and director Susan Lim, with whom I am working with in the recent years, offers an ambience full of compassion and sustenance. The motivation comes from within the collective.    

Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script".  Do you agree with him? 

What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

Yes, the script is the backbone. The script is not only the starting point as many people consider, it is also the point where you come back at the end. 

Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let be more creative?

Whether we do agree or not, melancholy or a little mental depression sometimes gives us some insights and insists to engage with some creative works. But I personally try to adopt a more methodical approach where the creative work comes up like a project.  

What do you wish to yourself as a Filmmaker?

The wish is no different from what Spanish poet Federico García Lorca wished for. I write and I do my art for love, for the love of people. 

When did you realised you wanted to be a Filmmaker?

I enjoy writing and directing, as well as cinematography and lighting. Since I was a kid, I have been full of enthusiasm for art. I have painted, played the drums, and written short stories for many years, but when I discovered cinema, everything changed. Unlike those who chose filmmaking at a young age, I decided to become a director during a sudden sleepless night in high school. Afterward, I started watching films like crazy and have now accumulated a watchlist of over 7,000 movies that I have seen. Then I grabbed my camera and started shooting short films with my friends. It was at that time that I realized my passion for cinema. I started creating my own stories and was largely inspired by literature. Nabokov, Faulkner, Dostoyevsky, Haruki Murakami, and Fitzgerald are some of the great writers who influence the scripts I write. If I hadn't secretly read these books in class, my films would be totally different.

Do you remember your first time at the Movies?

To be honest, I find it difficult to recall my first experience watching a movie. However, I do remember watching Martin Scorsese's Taxi Driver a long time ago, and that experience left a deep impression on me.

Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…

I would say Contempt (1963) and Whiplash (2014). The former made me feel the infinite possibilities of cinema, while the latter showed me the beauty of a complete and captivating story.

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

It's true that film schools often teach students conventional techniques, but the point is to know how to use these. In filmmaking, I know the importance of obeying rules and breaking rules — does this sound contradictory? Actually not. Most people are always thinking about how to break the rules and create something unique, but they often don’t know the importance of the rules. I believe that we can skillfully play around with the rules only under the premise of clear control of the rules.

Have you ever hated your ambition?

I love my ambition as it drives me forward. We all know that the process of creation can be excruciatingly painful, but we still willingly immerse ourselves in it so that we can experience the joy of the birth of a film.

Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?

This statement is not only applicable to filmmakers. Anyone who is passionate about their profession may seem pathological to others. But if one is willing to pursue it, then what's wrong with that?

Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?

In my opinion, no one can define cinema. Is it dizzying visuals and sounds? Is it a touching story or performance that brings people to tears? If anything, each person's cinema is a medium that reflects their own thoughts and philosophies. For example, to me, the value of individual existence is paramount; it transcends material possessions and societal success. No amount of wealth or fame can alleviate the spiritual loneliness and existential confusion that many people experience. In my cinema, I hope to show these.

Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?

Godard is my favorite director. So I appreciate unconventional filming techniques and narrative style. However, I also value the logic of the story and the believability of character development. I believe in "auteurism," a term from the French New Wave that refers to individuals who control multiple aspects of collaborative work. The French New Wave has greatly influenced my approach to filmmaking, as I view art as a means of self-expression.