Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Exploring empathy and industry: Mercenaire delves into the layers of empathy for ex-convicts and the cognitive dissonance surrounding the meat industry.
- Preparation is paramount: Pier-Philippe emphasizes that meticulous preparation is crucial, especially when dealing with complex shots on a tight budget.
- Visual storytelling with intent: The use of a 1:1 aspect ratio in "Mercenaire" aims to focus on the character's internal struggle and highlight the tension of feeling trapped.
Filmmaker Pier-Philippe Chevigny from Montreal, Quebec, is making waves with his short film Mercenaire set to premiere at HollyShorts Film Festival. Known for his anxiety-inducing camerawork and socially conscious narratives, Pier-Philippe continues to engage audiences with gripping stories.
Mercenaire features Marc-André Grondin and Émile Schneider, with Simran Dewan as the director of photography.
The film follows an ex-convict navigating life post-prison, unraveling the intricacies of the slaughterhouse industry and the challenges of reintegration.
On the origins of Mercenaire
The idea for Mercenaire came from Marc-André Grondin. He shot scenes in a slaughterhouse and found out the staff were ex-convicts. That setting intrigued me because I grew up in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec, a place notorious for crime in the '90s. I knew people who spiraled into crime and wondered, what about those who have no one after prison? This film is about that guy, with the audience offering the moral support he lacks.
On what surprised him during production
I was surprised by how the suggestion of animal cruelty affected people. Although none happened on screen, the film's unease is intentional. I even became a flexitarian through making it. It's about empathy for the character and questioning the meat industry.
On the most personal moment in the film
The opening scene is very me. It reflects capitalism's chain of exploitation. We start at the bottom with an animal and move to David, who's next in line. Shooting in a single take with a mobile camera aligns with my style and captures the essence of my work.
"The film has kind of two layers. One is about empathy."
On creative challenges
Choosing a 1:1 aspect ratio was radical but intentional. It limits the frame, focusing on David and excluding much of the slaughterhouse. This adds tension, making you feel trapped, mirroring David's realization that he's still a prisoner.
On filmmaking insights
Preparation is key. With tight budgets, you must be as prepared as humanly possible. Anticipate challenges for each department and devise solutions. It's tiresome but necessary for ambition.
BTS shots from Mercenaire
On HollyShorts significance
It's my second time at HollyShorts. I missed it in 2020 due to COVID, so I'm thrilled for another chance. It's the LA premiere of Mercenaire, and I'm excited for the exposure, especially in the States.
On future plans for Mercenaire
We're halfway through our festival run, with more selections this fall. An online release is planned for next year. Meanwhile, my second feature was just greenlit, and I'll start preparing for a 2026 summer shoot.
Watch Mercenaire Teaser
