AN ORDINARY EXPERIENCE, 52min., France
Directed by Herve Marcotte
In July 2022, I brought together two sixteen-year-olds, Jeanne and Romain, in a house by the sea. They didn’t know each other yet. I was determined to take them seriously, and make them live with all their uncertainties and reserves, an experience in the world of beauty.

http://verissimusfilms.com/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

My first long documentary, “Encounter with Remarkable Souls,” focused on 25-year-olds, so it’s no surprise that “An Ordinary Experience” centers around two 16-year-olds. Initially, my intention was simply to gather two young individuals (not actors). The casting requirement was deeply rooted in my desire to reconnect with my youth. The art theme emerged later.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

The shooting spanned four days, while the maturation process took a year. I stumbled upon books by chance and shared profound thoughts with trusted friends, as I do with all my films. Then, everything goes with the flow. The assistance of young Amédée Beriot, a student whom I supported during his studies at Lyon École des Beaux-Arts, was crucial in helping me realize my vision during the shooting.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

A (fictionized) poem

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Typically, I identify my characters from my family and friends network. However, for this casting, my initial choices for the male character lead fell through twice. Eventually, through a casual conversation about my cinema work with my chiropodist, who happened to be my former neighbor, her 16-year-old son, Romain, was enlisted. The girl, Jeanne, the daughter of my godson, ultimately agreed to participate. She later admitted that my enthusiasm was so infectious she couldn’t refuse.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

The feedback video moved me to tears. It surpassed my expectations that one of my films, which is headed to an international festival for the first time, could evoke such emotional responses. Inspired by Saint Charles de Foucauld, my films revolve directly or indirectly around universal love, portrayed by young characters (not necessarily in age but in spirit) who make viewers see another perspectives. I am deeply honored that the testimonials confirm this.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

My profession is Financial Manager, but I purchased my first camera in 2018, and filmmaking has become like a second life to me. I aim to convey insights about inner life to the world. I previously worked as a desert photographer, shooting diapositives together with musical cross-fade editing.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

“Into the Wild” is a film I’ve revisited several times; it blends adventure with meaning of life.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

I greatly appreciate the feedback from the festival. It encourages me to continue pursuing my cinematic endeavors my way. Currently, I’m seeking a distributor for my films to reach a younger audience. While I’m unsure of the potential outcomes, winning the award for “Best Documentary” should significantly facilitate the relationship between Verissimus Films and art cinemas.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

FilmFreeway.com is undoubtedly an excellent platform; everything is clear and reliable. In my opinion, it is the best international platform for festivals.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Eggs and bacon

11. What is next for you? A new film?

I am currently filming a threefold documentary exploring the intertwined themes of the invisible, silence, and light. There’s a clear progression in my subjects, focusing more on inner life. However, it seems I’ve found a style that resonates well with “An Ordinary Experience,” which makes no compromises in its poetic professional edit, music composition, and sound design. Next I dream of a spiritual festival in France where my films are shown!

My new feature films “Au fil de l’AUTRE” 1hr 22’ is now ready for cinema screening,

Submit to the ROMANCE & RELATIONSHIP Festival: