Is there a particular documentary film or filmmaker that had a major influence on your career?
Paul Salahadin Refsdal
What motivated you to make this film?
To show the pain and suffering we are creating with our wars.
Please tell us what camera(s) you shot with primarily – and any other special equipment that you used and why you used it.
DSLR + 8mm
Please tell us about any special styles or techniques that you used during the production of your film to help tell your story.
The co-photographer Natasa Urban used 8 mm camera to develop the visual style of parts of the film.
How did your story evolve from day one, to the very last day in post? Is your story what you thought it would be?
It became better than I hoped. But I would have wished to go back and film more with the children.
Please describe the most rewarding experience you had while making this film.
To experience that the children, despite them being traumatized, had moments when they were simply kids.
What advice can you give to other impact filmmakers?
Know your story. Don’t be afraid to show your connection to the theme.
What’s your favorite part about the filmmaking process and why?
Research and casting.
What’s the one item you always take with you when working out in the field and why?
The papers needed.
Please share a personal story about your experience making this film.
I grew up in war and for a long time this was everything I knew. Meeting the kids was a moving and almost therapeutic experience.
Can you describe any obstacles you encountered in making your film and/or in your distribution/exhibition efforts?
Financing and distribution is always hard.
What do you want audiences to take away from your film?
I want them to see the consequences of war.
Please list key points that should be covered in a post-screening discussion:
War. Traumas. Childhood. And how to build a better future.
Please provide information on any recent developments regarding the issue or subjects of the film. How have things changed or not changed?
The children are in the same situation.
What opportunities are available for those interested in getting further involved?
Become anti-war activists.
Please provide any additional resources (websites, links to additional videos, forms, articles, etc.):
Nothing available in English yet.
© SIMA Academy