How did you feel when you won your award at the Festival de Cannes?
I was just a cinephile who loved watching films… Back then, I never thought I would take up filmmaking and be selected for the Festival de Cannes. I was so happy I couldn’t contain myself. I burst out laughing when they called me up on stage. It wasn’t just my dream: I felt like I was living everyone’s dream. It was completely surreal.
What has this award changed in your life?
In terms of networking, it has opened all the doors, and the kind of visibility you get is what every artist is looking for. Being recognized by the filmmaking legends you have always admired is extremely motivating. And personally, in terms of experience, it has helped me evolve as a filmmaker.
What are your best Cannes memories?
The best memory starts from the day you receive an email from Dimitra herself (Artistic Director of La Cinef). I can’t exactly pinpoint one single moment, but the whole process itself was very special: from receiving the email to finally being there at the venue, meeting the fellow filmmakers, watching their films, and catching up on premieres… everything!
What message would you like your film to send to the new generation of filmmakers?
I would like to tell them: “Be open to everything. Move beyond the initial thoughts of whether I like this or I don’t like this. And in terms of expression, don’t compromise on the artistic vision, don’t listen to anyone, including me. You have to understand the universality of images and that, through your craft, you can create anything.”
Cinema, as an art form, comes very close to our subconscious mind—it weaves into our dreams, thoughts, and visions. When we express through film, we are essentially communicating through moving images and sound. Beyond aesthetics and technique, images have their own language—a tree may have different names across cultures, but when someone sees an image of a tree, they instinctively recognize it.
This understanding allows filmmakers to transcend language barriers and connect with audiences on a deeper level. Cinema reaches into our subconscious, shaping our thoughts and emotions in ways beyond words.
Do you have any projects in progress?
I’m currently working on my first feature film. It’s the kind of film I’ve always wanted to make, and I’m so happy that I’m finally able to bring it to life! The collaboration process will begin soon, and I can’t wait to share it with all of you!
