Blurring the Lines Between Reality and Fiction: The Innovative Filmmaking of a Rising Collective
A unique approach to filmmaking is gaining attention, one that prioritizes lived experience and collaborative storytelling. This collective seamlessly blends narrative film with the authenticity of real life, creating a powerful and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. Their process isn’t about imposing a story on people, but rather discovering and building it with them.
A Foundation in Real Stories
Initially, the filmmakers focused exclusively on non-professional actors. This stems from their background and a desire to immerse themselves in genuine narratives within authentic environments. They enjoy the unpredictable energy and raw emotion that comes with working directly with individuals and their stories.Their previous film, ”Vittoria,” exemplified this approach. After connecting with a family, they invited them to re-interpret their own experiences directly on camera. Now, with “Primo Viaggio,” they are taking a “further step into fiction,” while still maintaining their core beliefs.
The Power of Street Casting and Collaborative Scripting
The filmmakers believe their “particular talent” lies in their ability to integrate real-life dilemmas into their films through street casting. This isn’t simply about finding faces; it’s about finding lives that can enrich and reshape the narrative.
Here’s how their process typically unfolds:
Initial Casting: They identify individuals through street casting, seeking people with compelling stories and experiences.
Story Integration: These individuals’ lives are then woven into the script,ofen influencing the trajectory of the main character’s journey. Improvisation & Authenticity: The main character receives a general understanding of the story, but isn’t burdened with memorized lines. Instead, they are encouraged to interpret scenes based on their own lived experiences, fostering genuine emotion.
Screenplay as a Guide: The screenplay primarily serves as a roadmap for the crew, ensuring a cohesive vision while allowing for organic progress on set.
This method allows them to “transit the most emotion,” according to the filmmakers, creating a level of authenticity rarely seen in traditional filmmaking.
A Mentorship with a Master Filmmaker
Their journey hasn’t been entirely solitary. A chance encounter at a film festival led to a fruitful collaboration with a highly respected and experienced filmmaker. their debut film, “Californie,” won a competition he oversaw, sparking a conversation and ultimately a mentorship.
On ”Vittoria,” he granted them complete creative freedom, preferring to observe and offer guidance only after a rough cut was assembled. His attention to detail during post-production proved invaluable. When he offered to become a majority producer on “Primo Viaggio,” they readily accepted.
“Primo Viaggio”: More Than Just a Road Movie
Despite featuring a central character who travels from Naples to Malaga and Marseilles,”Primo Viaggio” isn’t a traditional road movie. The journey itself is secondary to the character’s internal struggles and circumstances.
The film centers on Carlo, a young man from Naples living with his grandfather, facing limited opportunities. Knowing he’s transporting cocaine with little life experience immediately creates tension.Ultimately, “Primo Viaggio” is a poignant exploration of modern-day issues and the challenges faced by a specific generation.
This innovative approach to filmmaking promises a future filled with compelling stories told with unparalleled authenticity and emotional depth. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, the importance of lived experience, and the potential to blur the lines between reality and fiction for a truly captivating cinematic experience.
