LOS DELINCUENTES
Los Delincuentes (The Delinquents), an interview with Rodrigo Moreno
A newcomer to the official selection, Rodrigo Moreno presents Los Delincuentes (The Delinquents) for Un Certain Regard. The drama, from the “New Argentine Cinema” movement, tells the story of two bank employees who break the law to be able to start a new life.
What inspired you to begin work on Los Delincuentes?
The first draft of the screenplay was inspired by an Argentinian classic called Apenas un delincuente (Hardly a Criminal), by Hugo Fregonese, released in 1949. The idea of the protagonist stealing money from his own workplace came from there.
Can you tell us about your working methods, and describe the atmosphere on set?
My working method is simply to enjoy what I’m doing. I try to create a positive atmosphere on set, because I firmly believe that if you want to convey joy in your films, you have to film in a happy atmosphere.
Please can you tell us a bit about the cast?
Daniel Elias an unpredictable actor, but he always meticulously prepares for his scenes. He focuses a lot on what he has to play, where he is, and where he has to go.
Esteban Bigliardi, who plays Román, is a long-time colleague of mine. We’ve collaborated on two other films. Since we first worked together, I have found it difficult to imagine making a new film without him.
As for Margarita Molfino, I first knew her as a dancer and choreographer. Once I became aware of her acting talent, I knew I had to give her the role of Norma.
The rest of the cast come from the Buenos Aires theatre scene. I really enjoyed working with everyone in the cast, they made me laugh a lot.
What did you learn during the course of making this film?
The more in tune I am with myself and my beliefs, the better I work and film.
What would you like people to take away from this film?
I’d like the audience to see that it is possible to watch and enjoy a film that avoids taking things too far just to impress audiences or critics. Of course, it’s a film about freedom, so if the viewer feels a sense of liberation, then the work has achieved its goal.
What made you want to become a director? What were your sources of inspiration?
I loved films from a very young age. At 9 years old, I saw Terry Gilliam’s Time Bandits, which I found completely astonishing. But I also come from a family of actors, so attending premieres, going onto sets and in TV studios were part of my life from the moment I was born.
Can you tell us a little about your next project?
A film called Lullaby, which I would like to start making soon. A man in his forties is told by his doctor that he needs to change his lifestyle to improve his health. The film follows a day in the life of a man saying goodbye to his former life.
