TNC Archive 2019
Interview
Carlota
Pereda
Cerdita / Piggy
Sara is an overweight teen that lives in the shadow of a clique of cool girls holidaying in her village. Not even her childhood friend, Claudia, defends her when she's bullied at the local pool in front of an unknown man. Her clothes are stolen and Sara must get home wearing nothing but her bikini. The long walk home will mark the rest of her life.
Hi Carlota, thanks for talking to The New Current, how is everything going?
Hi. Everything is great, we’re really happy with how things are going for our film.
Cerdita is part of the Madrid en Corto selection what does it mean to be bringing your film to Cannes?
Madrid en Corto is one of the best things that can happen to your short film. You get picked amongst the best productions in Spain to be part of the catalogue and get free distribution by the best professionals in the market, Ismael Martín and company.
Are there any additional nerves ahead of the festival or are you just taking it all in your stride?
Well, now I’m a bit nervous as we’ve been selected to be part of the Focus CoPro with the project for my first picture and we have to pitch it, but mostly I’m just happy to be living this experience.
What was the experience like for you screening Cerdita at the BFI London Festival and ÉCU Film Festival in Paris.
It’s always great to see different audiences, especially outside your country to react to your film, We are really grateful for the opportunity.
What do you hope to take away from your time at Cannes?
I hope we close some deals and get to watch some films.
Can you tell me a little bit about Cerdita, how did this film come about?
I was bringing a baby girl into a world that sometimes terrifies me. This short film was a way of exorcising those fears by confronting them head on.
"My approach is the same, but my tools are sharper."
What was the inspiration behind your main character Sara?
The summer my daughter was born I used to escape to the pool where the film was shot at siesta time. Under the scorching sun. The pool was empty, except for myself and a young girl, on her own. She was always there alone. I used to wonder why it was so.
What was the most challenging part of bringing Cerdita to life?
Finding the perfect actress to play Sara. It took me two years to find Laura Galan.
What have been the important lessons you've taken from making Cerdita?
You have to be true to your story.
Have you always had a passion for filmmaking?
Always. I’ve always wanted to tell stories.
How much has your approach to your films changed since your debut film?
Well, my debut was The Blondes, just a couple of years ago, but I’ve been working in TV for a long time now. My approach is the same, but my tools are sharper.
Is there any advice you've been given that's stuck with you?
No one cares if you make movies or not. Just yourself.
Finally, do you have any advice you would offer a fellow filmmaker?
Make mistakes. They are useful and beautiful.