Meet the talents of independent cinema

On Thursday evening, the FIFIB invited our students to a screening of the film La Petite Dernière, in anticipation of the visit the following day of two of its key players: Nadia Melliti, the film’s lead actress and winner of the Palme d’Or for Best Actress at Cannes 2024, and Julie Billy, the film’s producer. A rare opportunity to discuss a film the day before, and then to discuss it directly with those who shaped it.

On Friday morning, our students welcomed :

• Nadia Melliti (23) Lead actress in La Petite Dernière, revealed by a wild casting, with no previous experience in cinema.
• Julie Billy Film producer, who came to talk about the challenges of independent production.
• Nathacha Seweryn Programming director of the FIFIB, as mediator.

The discussions were particularly powerful and heartfelt: from the upheaval of an ordinary life propelled onto the Cannes scene, to the difficulties encountered in financing the film and its sometimes hostile reception in certain suburbs, the guests shared their experiences and anecdotes without filter.

Our very committed students asked questions that were as pertinent as the film’s themes, as well as about casting, but also about the self-sacrifice and courage it takes to make choices…. These are all essential reflections for future film professionals.

The afternoon continued with the screening of Des Preuves d’Amours byAlice Douard, the Bordeaux director who recently won a César 2024 for Best Short Film for L’attente, a real preamble to her feature film.

In the presence of :

• Alice Douard, director.
• Victor Courgeon, mediator.

With a perfect understanding of the educational DNA of CinéCréatis, Victor focused the discussions on our three areas: Image, Production and Post-Production. With candour and generosity, Alice answered all the questions, including the most personal ones. She shared the concrete impact that a César can have on a career… without glossing over the realities.

At the close of the festival, CinéCréatis had the pleasure of awarding a prize in the “CONTREBANDE” category , dedicated to those who make films with little means but a lot of ingenuity. A value we fully share.

Thank you to the FIFIB for its renewed confidence, thank you to our guests for their sincerity, and bravo to our students whose exchanges were warmly praised.