“This is How a Child Becomes a Poet”, interview with Director Céline Sciamma

In our exclusive interview at Fred Film Radio with Céline Sciamma, the renowned director of “This is How a Child Becomes a Poet,” in the section Giornate degli autori, we delved into her captivating journey through the world of cinema and her unique approach to storytelling. Sciamma’s career trajectory, from a student of French literature to a celebrated filmmaker, is a testament to her artistic evolution.

From writing to directing

As we conversed with Sciamma, it became clear that her transition from screenwriter to director was not merely a professional pivot but a profound realization of her storytelling potential. She admitted that, initially, she struggled to connect her writing with the intricacies of directing. However, it was the encouragement of fellow filmmakers that illuminated her path forward, leading to the creation of her debut feature film, “Water Lilies”.

Throughout her interview, Sciamma emphasized the importance of understanding the relationships between writing and directing. She highlighted that crafting a screenplay involves contemplating how to translate it into a visual medium. This synergy between writing and directing is at the heart of her creative process and has allowed her to craft narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

Sciamma’s cinematic influences have played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic vision. While she acknowledged the impact of filmmakers like David Lynch and Patricia Mazuy, she also expressed a deep admiration for lesser-known women filmmakers. Sciamma’s commitment to discovering and celebrating the works of Alice Guy, Mabel Normand, Chantal Akerman, Yannick Bellon, Germaine Dulac, and Marie Epstein underscores her dedication to amplifying women’s voices in cinema.

Female characters

One of the most striking aspects of Sciamma’s filmography is her unwavering focus on female adolescence. In a genre where “coming-of-age” narratives often center on boys, Sciamma’s films shine a spotlight on young girls navigating the complexities of youth. This paradigm shift challenges established cinematic conventions and offers a fresh perspective on the adolescent experience.

Sciamma emphasized that her films are not about changing narratives solely because the characters are female; they are about challenging existing structures. Her characters’ gender is not the primary focus; it’s their subjectivity and the unique situations they face that drive the narrative. Sciamma’s commitment to portraying the depth and complexity of her female characters sets her films apart in the industry.

Throughout the interview, Sciamma’s dedication to exploring the solitude of characters and the power of the female gaze emerged as recurring themes. She believes that cinema, more than any other art form, can authentically convey the solitude of characters. Her films, characterized by raw vulnerability and intimate storytelling, showcase the profound impact of the female gaze on the cinematic landscape.

Sciamma’s meticulous attention to sound and music in her films enhances the emotional resonance of her stories. From the evocative score of “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” to the contemporary hits in “Girlhood,” music serves as a powerful storytelling tool in her hands. It is through this auditory landscape that she deepens the emotional connection between her characters and the audience.

A shared creative vision

Her collaboration with cinematographer Claire Mathon further exemplifies her commitment to a shared creative vision. Sciamma and Mathon engage in extensive discussions that extend beyond technical aspects, delving into the philosophical underpinnings of each project. Their collaboration has produced visually stunning and thematically rich films that continue to captivate audiences.

Céline Sciamma’s films are a visual and emotional feast, drawing inspiration from feminist artists of the 1970s and beyond. Her commitment to representing diverse art forms within her films, from painting and drawing to embroidery and music, enriches the cinematic experience. Her dedication to celebrating the arts and showcasing their impact on human expression is evident throughout her work.

In addition to her filmmaking prowess, Sciamma’s advocacy for gender equality in the film industry is noteworthy. She co-founded the Collectif 50/50, an organization that champions gender parity in French cinema. Her contributions have sparked crucial conversations and initiatives aimed at addressing the gender imbalance within the industry.

Pushing the boundaries of storytelling

As we concluded our interview with Céline Sciamma, it became evident that her cinematic journey is far from over. Her commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling, amplifying underrepresented voices, and challenging established norms continues to shape the future of filmmaking. “This is How a Child Becomes a Poet” stands as a testament to her unwavering dedication to feminist storytelling and her ability to craft narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

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