Directors Jēkabs Okonovs and Aivars Šaicāns discuss their creative process and the challenges faced in producing the short film "Slime," which received two nominations at the Grand Kristaps film awards.
The article highlights the creative journey of Latvian directors Jēkabs Okonovs and Aivars Šaicāns as they work on their short film "Slime," which has garnered two nominations at the esteemed Grand Kristaps awards for Best Short Film and Best Editing. The film is a project born from their studies at the National Film School and encapsulates their collaborative efforts in storytelling and sound design. The directors emphasize the significance of a conducive work environment, particularly their use of a coffee machine and large brainstorming boards, which fuel their creativity.
In overcoming the hurdles during the editing process, they faced the daunting task of sifting through nearly 40 hours of filmed material to curate a cohesive narrative. Okonovs describes the challenge of not having a clear initial vision for the final product, which made the editing phase particularly intricate. Both directors, coming from musical backgrounds, understood the vital role that sound plays in film and aimed to create a distinctive soundscape that would enhance the overall emotional impact of their short film.
The nominations received at the Grand Kristaps highlight the growing recognition of new filmmaking talent in Latvia's cinema scene, showcasing the importance of experimental approaches to filmmaking and the integration of sound as a critical component. This success not only reflects the hard work and creativity of Okonovs and Šaicāns but also serves as an encouragement for other budding filmmakers in the region, indicating that innovative storytelling and dedication can lead to significant achievements in the arts.
