As the 69th BFI London Film Festival (LFF) draws to a close, one can’t help but wonder: What’s next for the brilliant minds behind films like Rose of Nevada, Little Amélie, and Kim Novak’s Vertigo? Over a series of intimate Filmmaker Afternoon Tea sessions, The Hollywood Reporter (THR) sat down with the creators of these standout films to discuss their current works and future ambitions. Here’s a deep dive into their insights, controversies, and what lies ahead.
But here’s where it gets controversial... While many films focus on the lives of the wealthy and privileged, Rose of Nevada dares to explore the often-overlooked coexistence of poverty and affluence, particularly in Cornwall, England. Directed by Mark Jenkin and produced by Denzil Monk, this time-travel drama stars George MacKay and Callum Turner in a captivating time loop. Though not overtly political, the film subtly highlights societal disparities. Monk notes, ‘These are different worlds that coexist, and nowhere more so than in Cornwall.’ Jenkin adds, ‘We’ve got a responsibility to highlight what people might think is insignificant,’ pointing out the shocking normalization of food banks in recent decades. Is it the filmmaker’s duty to address such issues, or should art remain neutral?
In a fascinating twist, life imitated art when Monk experienced a leaky roof—a scene eerily similar to one in the film. Jenkin jokes, ‘I’m really worried about the things I write now, in case they start happening.’ The duo is now developing four projects simultaneously, with Jenkin admitting, ‘As I get older, I’ve got to speed the process up.’ Which of these projects will see the light of day first? Only time will tell.
Shifting gears, Little Amélie transports audiences to the enchanting world of a Belgian girl in Japan. Co-directed by Maïlys Vallade and produced by Claire La Combe, this animated film is a directorial debut that adapts Amélie Nothomb’s The Character of Rain. Its unique visual style—vibrant, line-free, and flat—has captivated audiences worldwide. La Combe proudly shares, ‘It’s been sold to over 20 countries, including Japan, which was a huge challenge.’ But here’s the part most people miss... Despite its French origins, the film’s portrayal of Japan resonated deeply with Japanese audiences, a testament to its universal appeal. Vallade, who is already brainstorming new projects, reveals, ‘I love symbolic and philosophical stories. I have lots of emotions when creating stories.’
Finally, Kim Novak’s Vertigo offers an intimate look at the screen icon’s life. Director Alexandre O’Philippe describes Novak as ‘a very private individual, but once she lets you into her world, you’re part of the family.’ And this is the part most people miss... Novak’s ability to switch between her private self and her iconic persona is nothing short of spectacular. O’Philippe reflects, ‘She’s kind of the last of her kind,’ capturing the fading glamor of Hollywood’s Golden Age. His future projects include a Nosferatu double feature, another Vertigo-related film, and even a potential Evil Dead project. With so many irons in the fire, which will he tackle next?
As these filmmakers continue to push boundaries, one question lingers: What stories will they tell next, and how will they challenge our perspectives? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on these bold creators and their upcoming ventures!
