Entrevista Miercoles 02 Abril

Summary

In this interview, Lautaro Lombardo chats with directors Tamá Garatei, Camila Tocker, and Santis Girald about their return to BAFICI after 18 years, bringing the new film 'UPA 4: The Horror and Fury.' They discuss the evolution of their collaboration, the challenges of making provocative comedy in today's politically charged environment, and how humor serves as both a protest and a means to explore complex societal issues. The conversation delves into their creative process, their bond, and their deep connection with the Argentine film industry.

Takeaways

• 😀 Lautaro Lombardo introduces the 6th edition of the Lofisi festival, sponsored by Pelipl, with directors Tamá Garatei, Camila Tocker, and Santis Girald present.
• 😀 The directors express immense joy about returning to the BAFICI festival, especially after their previous win 18 years ago with 'UPA'.
• 😀 BAFICI has always been a home for 'UPA', marking a significant milestone with a retrospective screening and opening the festival in 2025.
• 😀 'UPA 4' is described as a movie made in response to ongoing attacks on the film industry, artists, and various social groups, aiming to provoke with humor and protest.
• 😀 The directors emphasize how 'UPA 4' channels humor as a form of protest, addressing societal issues and political violence through satire.
• 😀 They discuss the importance of humor in challenging sensitive topics, providing an outlet for tackling difficult, emotionally heavy subjects.
• 😀 Despite the complex, politically correct landscape, the directors remain committed to their irreverent and bold comedic style, even when it pushes boundaries.
• 😀 The team often operates in a 'discomfort zone', where they allow themselves to tackle uncomfortable and controversial topics for deeper reflection.
• 😀 Over the years, the directors have evolved into a strong creative partnership, constantly pushing each other to be more daring and experimental in their work.
• 😀 The 'UPA' saga is described as a unique blend of guerrilla filmmaking and metacinema, with references to iconic directors and films, reflecting their unorthodox style.

Q & A

How do the directors feel about returning to BAFICI after winning Best Film with UPA 18 years ago?

The directors are extremely happy and excited to return to BAFICI after 18 years. They describe it as a 'big boost,' and they feel that their return signifies a personal and professional milestone, especially with a retrospective of their work being showcased.

What does the return of the UPA series in 2025 represent for the filmmakers?

The return of UPA in 2025, with 'UPA 4: The Horror and Fury,' represents the filmmakers' conscious decision to respond to ongoing attacks on their industry and society. It highlights their desire to address these issues through humor, using it as a form of protest.

What is the central theme of 'UPA 4: The Horror and Fury'?

'UPA 4' focuses on responding to the hostile political and social climate, particularly attacks on artists and various communities. The film uses humor as a protest to address these issues, reflecting the filmmakers' awareness of the challenges they face in their industry.

Why do the filmmakers choose humor as their main tool for addressing serious issues?

The filmmakers believe that humor allows them to tackle heavy and painful topics in a more approachable way. It provides a 'fugue' to discuss emotionally charged themes and lets them express fears and critique society without being too direct or solemn.

Do the filmmakers feel that humor is more effective than other methods of expression?

Yes, the filmmakers believe humor is more effective for them as it enables them to reflect on personal and societal issues. They see it as a way to break boundaries and engage in a form of artistic rebellion, especially when traditional methods might be too limiting.

Have the filmmakers ever felt the need to self-censor their work?

While the filmmakers do not censor themselves, they admit to occasionally questioning whether certain scenes or jokes might go too far. However, they embrace the discomfort that comes with pushing boundaries and consider it an essential part of their creative process.

How has their long-term collaboration influenced their work over the years?

Their long-term collaboration has led to a deep connection and trust. As they continue to work together, they have developed a unique system of creativity, where they are able to work instinctively and without hesitation, knowing that they can trust each other's vision.

What role does chaos play in the creative process of the filmmakers?

Chaos is an integral part of their creative process. Initially, they worked by instinct, but over time, they have embraced this chaotic approach, which has now become a structured dynamic that helps them continue to produce innovative work with confidence.

How do the filmmakers balance humor and social commentary in their work?

The filmmakers balance humor and social commentary by using humor as a tool to expose societal flaws. They often find humor in uncomfortable situations, allowing them to critique various issues in a way that challenges norms, often even within their own communities.

What influences or film references do the filmmakers see in the UPA saga?

The UPA saga draws inspiration from various films, including Dogma 95, Richard Linklater’s guerrilla filmmaking style, and works by auteurs like Almodóvar and Berman. These references reflect the saga’s raw, unpolished style, emphasizing creativity and rebellion.