The Big Idea Q&A with filmmaker Florian Habicht, who recently returned from his year in New York with his latest film Love Story.
The film – a pick-a-path romance that explores love and lust in NYC – launched the NZ International Film Festival in Auckland in July and is now screening at cinemas.
The Big Idea Q&A with filmmaker Florian Habicht, who recently returned from his year in New York with his latest film Love Story.
The film – a pick-a-path romance that explores love and lust in NYC – launched the NZ International Film Festival in Auckland in July and is now screening at cinemas.
Love Story was self-funded with assistance from the Arts Foundation Harriet Friedlander NYC Artist Residency and the New Zealand Film Commission.
During what time of the day do you feel most inspired?
2:24am
How would a good friend describe your aesthetic or style?
‘Florian’s films have been shot with a penguin, a real penguin, not a camera’ – Jon B.
What aspect of your creative practice gives you the biggest thrill?
Being able to experiment and take risks. Doing things that I think have never been done before… collaborating with my best friends. Having a portaloo on set, or maybe two one day.
How does your environment affect your work?
Alleluja café on K road makes me happy. It’s my office, where I hire and fire…
Do you like to look at the big picture or focus on the details?
I’m a bit obsessive and I love the details… My friends and collaborators help me focus on the big picture! I’m a huge fan of Ed Wood, and remember him saying to his cast and crew on the set of Bride of the Monster “Don’t worry about it, the details aren’t important, it’s the B-I-G picture!’
What's your number one business tip for surviving (and thriving) in the creative industries?
Wear a life jacket.
Which of your projects to date has given you the most satisfaction?
Making Love Story, especially the breakfast scene. And Woodenhead, where we pre-recorded the entire sound track first, and then shot the visuals (to match and not match) in the far North.
Who or what has inspired you recently?
Just saw the 3d dance film Pina. Yeah, watch it!
Tell us a bit about your background.
I did a clown workshop in the South of France then years ago. In Sete, near Montpellier. It was all in French, and I don’t speak much. I thought I was learning clown moves for the entire first week, until someone later told me they were Tai Chi warm up exercises.
Tell us a bit about the films inspiration
A psychic in NYC told me to never go in front of the camera… I had just missed out on funding for two projects, so decided to make and self fund a film in NYC before I left, and jump in front of the lens!
What do you hope the audience takes away from it?
A smile.
If you could go back and choose a completely different career path to the one you've chosen, what would it be?
Queen tribute band ,drummer…
You are given a piece of string, a stick and some fabric. What do you make?
A flag.
What's great about the NZ International Film Festival?
Discovering films that change your life. Like God’s Comedy for me, and seeing Felllini’s Eight and a Half on the big screen.
What’s your big idea for 2012?
MAKE LOVE NOT WAR.
Love Story - theatrical trailer from Pictures for Anna on Vimeo.
Love Story is now screening in Auckland Cinemas, and opens next Thursday in Wellington.
For session times and more visit Flicks and Pictures for Anna