Our popular New Directors/New Films shorts showcase continues this weekend with Shorts Program 2, screening on March 31 and April 1. Check out the trailer for Didier Barcelo's The End, starring Charlotte Rampling.
Describe your film The End to someone who hasn't seen it.
It's the story of a very well known actress (Charlotte Rampling) who discovers one day watching TV that she's not in her films anymore – she's been replaced by a young actress. It''s the beginning of a nightmare, the beginning of the end….
What was the most memorable day of shooting like?
If you mean for this one, it was the first day, not my best memory. Everyone was tense, even Charlotte because we didn't know each other. But at the same time I was so proud to film her. It was a mix of opposite feelings.
If you could work with any artist alive, who would it be and why?
Kate Winslet. The best actress at this moment. She would play an ugly character like a mom who beat her children.
What are you most excited to do while you're in NYC ?
See my film at the MoMA, I love this museum.
Describe your very first experience with filmmaking.
It was advertising for Canalplus. They were three commercials that I wrote. There was no money, which is why they gave me a chance. It's not a good memory, I felt alone on the set and it was really hard to choose everything. I was so doubtful. At the same time, it was this experience that gave me the desire to film.
What would you be doing if you weren't making films?
Euh…..
What is your favorite (and/or least favorite) movie and why?
Apocalypse Now. My first very big emotion for cinema. For me, Coppola is a real hero. He sacrificed everything for this movie, his money, his family life, his health… I saw it again just a few days ago and it's still amazing.
From what types of art, other than film, do you draw inspiration?
Literature, obviously.
What is your favorite food to eat on set?
Dried fruit and Japanese green tea.
Do you have any rituals or rules for yourself while you're working on a film?
At the end of each film, the line producer has to offer me a cigar, a Romeo and Juliette or A CoĂŻba. It's important for me as it means that I will be lucky for the next one.
Which parts of the filmmaking process do you enjoy the most? The least?
Definitely shooting, working with actors.
What was the biggest surprise you had while making your film?
I knew that Charlotte Rampling was a huge actress but I was really amazed by her precision and her involvement.
Shorts Program 2 screens on March 31 and April 1.
