FILM
Laura Luchetti
33' Venice International Film Critics' Week
Sic@Sic 2018
‘SUGARLOVE’
ITALY 2018 / 9' / SPECIAL EVENT
Gemma and Marcello are about to get married. They have looked forward to this moment for so long. The ceremony is about to begin and they are overwhelmed with emotions, fears, and expectations.
As every couple, they support each other and imagine their future together, promising eternal love. But they are not like every other couple about to get married: Gemma and Marcello are two sugar paste wedding cake toppers.
Hey Laura, thanks for talking to TNC, how is everything going?
I am fine, very excited about what is happening! I have my stop motion project at the Venice Film Festival and my feature film. "Twin Flower" at the Toronto Intl. Film Festival... who could ask for more?
What does it mean for you to be screening Sugarlove at the 2018 SIC@SIC?
I am thrilled and honored to have my work screened at SIC, especially being it a stop motion project. I got into stop motion only four years ago...
With Sugarlove screening as a special event does that add any extra pressure on you?
Being the Special Event at Sic adds extra pressure and extra joy!
Tell me a little bit about Sugarlove, how did the film come about?
"Sugarlove" is the story of an endless love. The love between Gemma and Marcello who are just about to get married. But Gemma and Marcello are not your everyday bride and groom...they are two statuettes made of sugar on top of a wedding cake.
What was the inspiration behind the screenplay?
I found myself thinking how volatile are human feelings. Often those statuettes on top of the cake last longer than the marriage they represent. This is what inspired me to write the story and then make it into a short film.
What has been the most challenging scene for you to film?
Every day was a new challenge. The animation, done by Marco Varriale and Lulu Cancrini, is total "handmade" and so are the puppets. A real work of craftsmanship. We couldn't rely on green screen or rigs or special effects of any sort. That's why every day presented a new challenge to be overcome.
Have you always had a passion for filmmaking?
Yes, I've always loved films and the art of filmmaking.
What was the first film you saw that inspired you to become a director?
"Quadrophenia" directed by Franc Roddam, I was a kid when I watched it, they were showing it on a summer afternoon on Italian tv. I liked it so much! I started thinking I wanted to do something like that when I grew up...
"Be true to your inner voice. It's always right."
How much as your style and approach to your films changed since your debut short?
I think we do change a lot while we grow up and learn. I shot my first short in London many years ago it was called "In great shape". I had blast shooting it. I have changed since then but I still love quirky stories, that hasn't changed too much.
How would you describe Sugarlove in three words?
True love always wins. (Sorry they are 4 words!)
Do you have any advice for any fellow directors?
Be true to your inner voice. It's always right.
And finally, what do you hope people will take away from this film?
I hope they will take away those true feelings are worth even the biggest sacrifice...