German director Valeska Grisebach returns to Cannes, presenting her latest feature, The Dreamed Adventure, in competition on May 22. This marks her first appearance since her acclaimed 2017 film, Western, which premiered in the Un Certain Regard section and won the German Film Critics’ Award for Best Feature Film.
Challenges in Filmmaking
Despite Western's success, Grisebach faced obstacles in securing funding for The Dreamed Adventure due to her unconventional methods, such as using amateur actors and working without a traditional script. 'That happens to me constantly,' she admits, hoping this film might change that trend.
The film continues Grisebach's exploration of 'male-coded genres,' focusing on Veska, an archaeologist near the Bulgarian-Greek-Turkish border, who becomes involved in a gang war.
Inspiration and Research
Grisebach's fascination with Europe’s complex history, particularly post-reunification, inspired her to set another film in Bulgaria. 'After Western, I wanted to make another film in Bulgaria,' she says, acknowledging the time-consuming nature of her research and collaboration with locals.
Her interest in male genres stems from childhood, watching films with her father. 'It's a very classic, maybe even specifically female experience,' she notes, discussing her engagement with societal and gender constructs through genre.
Working with Non-Professionals
Grisebach values the authenticity non-professional actors bring, saying, 'Their knowledge becomes part of the film.' Lead actress Yana Radeva was discovered in Sofia and impressed with her commitment, bringing unique life experiences to the role.
The director’s filmmaking approach involves a screenplay resembling prose, developed with co-writer Lisa Bierwirth, but relies on verbal storytelling on set. 'I have to tell the story and the dialogue,' Grisebach explains, emphasizing the dynamic nature of her process.
Future Plans
While financing challenges persist, Grisebach remains hopeful for change. The last-minute support from Austria's Panama Film ensured The Dreamed Adventure was made. Grisebach now dreams of creating a series at Europe’s external border, inspired by the rich stories gathered during her research.
Grisebach’s return to Cannes brings excitement, as she reflects on the attention and continuity a festival premiere provides. 'It's wonderful,' she says of the competition slot, looking forward to the future.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cannes-interview-valeska-grisebach-the-dreamed-adventure-1236594683/
