Q: When did you realize that the story living in your heart had to be turned into a screenplay and then into a film project?
“Stories living in my heart”—that’s a great phrase because most of my stories live in my head long before they reach my heart. The idea for Cassandra Venice came to me in 2021. Each night after the Venice Film Festival, I’d return from the Lido to the city center, wandering through the silent labyrinth of streets and canals. The story started to take shape during those nocturnal walks.
By 2022, I had found the perfect leading lady, Polli Cannabis, during the Venice International Film Festival (VIFF). We booked a few days to film in Venice. In 2023, during the next VIFF, we shot the final footage and even tested the red carpet together. By 2024, the project had matured into its final form.
Venice itself was a major inspiration. Its labyrinthine canals, ancient architecture, and deep sense of history naturally evoke mystery and suspense—themes I’m passionate about. The city’s unique atmosphere, where beauty and decay coexist, was the perfect backdrop for exploring existential themes. Venice’s ability to blur the lines between reality and myth mirrors the internal conflicts and looming threats explored in the film.
Q: Is there a person you would like to thank for helping you bring your project to life?
Absolutely. When I create stories, I imagine an actual person who could embody the protagonist. Polli Cannabis was that person. Without telling her the exact story at first, I needed her to believe in my vision. Polli’s innate ability to convey depth and complexity made her perfect for the role of Cassandra. She brings a quiet intensity to the character, capturing her internal struggles with grace and nuance. Her ability to embody both vulnerability and strength was crucial for portraying a character who is both a prophetess and a victim of her own knowledge.
Polli went above and beyond, even helping with costumes and makeup, allowing me to focus on the camera, settings, and story twists. Her trust was vital, like during the scene where a character drinks from an imaginary coffee cup. I didn’t explain why at the time, but later clarified that it was a metaphor for the absurdity of life—going through motions while ignoring reality. She embraced it without hesitation.
Even when delays stretched the project into 2023, Polli remained patient and supportive. By the time we finished, the extra effort and time had paid off. I’ve always believed in her and our project, and that belief has a way of inspiring others.
Q: Which writer inspires you the most?
I’d rather talk about directors with unique visions than traditional writers. David Lynch, for instance, has influenced the surreal and dreamlike qualities in Cassandra Venice. Like Lynch, I’m drawn to exploring the darker, more mysterious aspects of human nature and the subconscious. In the film, this is evident in how reality and fantasy blur, creating a world where logic gives way to emotion and intuition. The symbolism, color, and sound design—essential for evoking unease and introspection—are inspired by Lynch’s storytelling approach.
M. Night Shyamalan’s use of plot twists and color symbolism has also shaped my work. I strive to create visually rich experiences that carry deeper meanings, much like his films.
Q: Do you think the Wild Filmmaker Community is helping to turn your dream into a reality?
I’m curious about that myself. I’ve just joined this community, so time will tell. But it wouldn’t be the first time a new project was born during a festival or industry event. Most of my projects have started this way. Meeting like-minded, motivated people is crucial, and I’m always open to collaboration.
Filmmaking began as a simple hobby but has grown far beyond what I expected. By sponsoring my own projects, I’ve gained the freedom to pursue ideas I truly believe in. While it’s not a path to wealth, that’s never been my goal. As the saying goes in the Bond movies: “Never say never.”
Traveling to festivals and connecting with creators worldwide is invaluable. Awards attract attention, foster collaboration, and offer recognition to the actors and crew involved. In the end, what more could I ask for?
