Florian Lebelt

Can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your background in filmmaking?

I’m Florian, 39 years old, father of two. I started filmmaking in school about twenty years ago. Since then, I have directed a few music videos, short films, and advertisements.

 

What inspired you to become a filmmaker, and how did you get started in the industry?

I grew up as a huge Star Wars fan. My very first project was an attempt at a fan film, which turned out to be a disaster (laughs). But I learned a lot from it: technical skills, teamwork, and what it really means to make a film.

 

What was your motivation behind creating this particular film?

I wanted to create a martial arts film with my son. At the same time, I wanted to explore teenage struggles and the fight against overwhelming emotions.

 

Did you face any challenges during the production process? If so, how did you overcome them?

Yes, definitely. First, we had no budget. Then, the fight choreography was taught to the actors on the same morning we filmed it. And finally, we needed rain—so we used firemen’s equipment to create it on set.

 

Can you discuss the creative decisions you made while developing your film, such as the visual style or narrative approach?

I wanted to immerse the viewer in a fable—a very suggestive story with mystery and details that may not be noticed at first sight. And I wanted it to be both an action film and a slow, contemplative film at the same time.

 

Are there any specific themes or messages that you aimed to convey through your film?

That the fight against our emotions never ends, but we can choose to face them.

 

How do you feel your film stands out from others in the same genre or category?

I think of it as a “youngling watching a master,” and the master in this case could be Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

 

What do you hope the audience will take away from watching your film?

I hope they will understand my intention, and feel moved by it.

 

Can you share any interesting or memorable experiences you had while making this film?

Definitely the rain sequence—we used firemen’s hoses to create the effect. Everyone was completely soaked and freezing, but it gave the film a memorable atmosphere.

 

What are your aspirations as a filmmaker, and where do you see yourself in the future?

I want to keep creating films with my heart (and my brain, of course). My aspiration is simply to continue this journey.

 

Are there any filmmakers or films that have greatly influenced your work?

Yes: Chinese cinema, Zack Snyder, and science fiction films in general.

 

Have you participated in any other film festivals or competitions? If so, how was your experience?

Yes, with other short films a few years ago. It was a great experience—listening to the audience’s feedback about your story and your work is truly wonderful.

 

Is there anything else you would like the audience and the film festival organizers to know about you or your film?

No budget but heart. No words but emotions. (The film has no dialogue.)