Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Gabriel Grosclaude's personal experiences with meat consumption inspired the film Lux Carne. He was driven by his childhood discussions about meat and personal encounters with animal slaughter to explore its implications in a fictional world.
- The film's sound design, especially a scene involving a chicken, was a significant creative challenge. Grosclaude and his team spent days in the studio ensuring the sound conveyed the scene effectively without visual elements.
- For Gabriel, independent filmmaking is about diversity and breaking traditional storytelling rules. This approach enriches the cinematic landscape, much like biodiversity strengthens natural ecosystems.
Gabriel Grosclaude, the creative mind behind Lux Carne, is set to make waves at this year's HollyShorts Film Festival. This thought-provoking short film, rooted in personal experiences and ethical dilemmas, examines a world where consuming meat requires killing an animal yourself.
Grosclaude's collaboration with key figures such as Rafael Graf (Cinematography) and Lina Doll (Production Design) brought this dystopian universe to life, transforming unconventional spaces into vibrant storytelling arenas. His sister, living in L.A., adds a personal touch to his film's journey to HollyShorts.
Q&A Interview
Could you share what drew you to create Lux Carne?
The idea for Lux Carne came from my childhood, where family meals often sparked debates about meat consumption. One brother was vegan, which influenced my decision to eat only meat from animals I could personally kill. This experience inspired the film's world—a society enforcing this rule. It challenges how people might behave and what regulations would emerge, forming the foundation of the narrative.
What was an unexpected challenge during filming?
The urgency of decision-making on set was intense. Despite preparation, directing requires you to be sharp and clear about each scene's intention. Thankfully, I had a brilliant team, including a great 1st AD, which helped maintain focus and allowed creative flexibility.
Is there a particular moment in the film that feels uniquely yours?
The opening radio scene is particularly personal. Initially recorded with an actor, I decided to do it myself to capture the precise tone and emotion I envisioned. It added the intimacy I was seeking.
"I hope the film makes people notice the quiet absurdities embedded in the world we live in."
What do you want audiences to take away from the film?
I hope it encourages people to notice the quiet absurdities in our world, to remain critical, and recognize their agency in responding to these challenges.
How did collaboration influence this project?
Collaboration was essential. My co-writer, Luca Moessner, and I exchanged bold ideas without fear, making the writing process both rigorous and playful. The crew's dedication elevated our work, proving the power of collective effort.
What does being selected for HollyShorts mean to you?
It's an honor to be part of a festival known for championing bold voices. Personally, it's special because my sister in L.A. will see it screened in her city.
"Independent cinema brings richness and necessary variety to the seventh art."
Where do you see Lux Carne going next?
The film has had a successful European run, winning several awards. I hope to continue its festival journey and eventually release it online to reach a broader audience.
At the core of all your work, what drives you?
At the core of all my work is a desire to move people—to produce emotions that linger, even after the film ends.
For more information, visit Swiss Films.
Watch the official trailer of Lux Carne
