INTERVIEW with Sebastian Pereanu
Set in a world of fantasy, the film follows a writer who meets Irina, the female character from his novel, in real life. As they fall in love and begin a relationship, he decides to reveal the truth-she is his creation, brought to life beyond the page. But when Vlad, another character from the story, consumed by jealousy and obsession, finds them and shoots the writer, time suddenly comes to a halt.
How long have you been doing movies? How did you decide to start making movies?
I started making videos and short clips on YouTube more than 10 years ago. Then I made a few short films and a documentary about Woody Allen. "The End of the World" is my debut in feature films. I've always wanted to make movies, ever since I was 13 years old when I saw the film "American Beauty."
Why did you do this project?
I had this story in mind for many years and I wanted to turn it into a film. I made it because, for me, making films practically is my way of being.
(If you can say). How much budget did you have to do this project?
Approximately 150,000 euros plus other money that we haven't been paid because the very small team I worked with did many other things where we saved money.
Was it self-funded or did you get budget/producers/investors?
Mostly, they were money I invested personally. Money I borrowed through bank loans. In the end, I also had two small partnerships from which I received some additional funds.
How long did it take from the initial idea to being able to release?
From the time I wrote the screenplay until I finished post-production: three and a half years.
Are you happy with the result?
Yes. I believe many things could have been done much better, but considering the budget and resources I had at my disposal, I think I did the best I could.
What phase is this project in right now? Are you in the initial phase of sending it to festivals, middle phase or finishing the circuit?
I sent it to several festivals. We were rejected by the major festivals. We will wait a few more months to receive responses from other festivals. We hope to get into a few festivals to ensure it gets some exposure.
How has your experience been with the festivals so far? Where do you think they should improve?
We haven't been in any competition with the film yet.
Could you tell us which platforms you use to submit your entries to festivals?
FilmFreeway
Normally, filmmakers use many references, favorite directors, favorite movies, etc. Were you inspired by any director or film? If so, tell us your references.
Oh, there are so many... Tarantino, Kubrick, Scorsese, Sidney Lumet, there are so many. But perhaps the greatest influence for me remains Woody Allen; ever since I watched his films at 20 years old, so many scenes, so many moments and ideas from Woody Allen have stayed with me.
Your favorite movie?
Similarly, there are so many. Manhattan, Pulp Fiction, etc.
Favorite series?
Similarly, so many. I would just mention a series I recently watched and really liked: Ripley.
Do you see yourself making movies in 5 years? Where do you see yourself?
Yeah, it's my way of living, with my mind on the film I'm working on now or the next one I will make. I see myself in full production with the next film, which I am already thinking about and preparing to write the screenplay for.
Do you have any other project in mind?
Yes, a future feature film about the tumultuous relationship between a guy and a girl, approached stylistically as if it were a documentary.
What do you ask for the future? (cinematographically speaking)
More budget 😊)
Your best experience in a movie theater?
The last time at “One Battle After Another”, it was so enjoyable to leave the cinema with the impression that you were part of a masterpiece.