Cannes Short Film Corner - Wild Flower: a story of faith and sacrifice
In 1950s Communist Slovakia nurse Sister Zdenka discovers her new patient is a priest and government prisoner, this encounter takes her on a torturous path that tests her faith, beliefs and puts her own life at risk.
Interview with Writer/Producer Kika Cicmanec
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Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
Thank you. My film is based on a true story that really resonated with me. It is about a brave, strong woman who did a heroic deed. I believe it is an important story that needed a voice.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
It’s a movie about deep love, sacrifice, selflessness, and the belief in ones own strength and calling.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
Even today in over 140 countries torture techniques are still practiced, which makes the theme very universal and a current issue even though it plays in the 1950s.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development and production?
The script evolved with a lot of research. I used every book I could find about her as research material, and in addition I was very fortunate to get in touch with her family. Further on, I visited the monastery she was a part of in Slovakia, and got to spend a night with the nuns who answered any questions that hadn’t been answered so far. Thus, the script was changing and growing constantly.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
The film received amazing feedback. The audiences have been involved and touched. After screenings people want to know more about Bl.Zdenka’s story, and would love to see a feature film of the short.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
I am very grateful for the amazing feedback, especially after we screened it in front of the family of Sister Zdenka, who were all very touched, pleasantly surprised, and thankful for the sharing of her story. Getting the approval of her family was important to me, and fortified my feelings for how I chose to write it. I’m very pleased.
Wild Flower: a story of faith and sacrifice
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I hope to use it as an additional platform to share Bl.Zdenka’s story and to build new relationships with fellow filmmakers.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
We are currently looking for producers and funders for the feature script of the short film. But of course, we would love to keep promoting the short film as well at other film festivals.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I would like the reception to reflect positive discussion about the history involved in the film, as well as current issues involving torture still being practiced to this day. This story shows a part of the past that younger generations may not even know about. I would also like people to take to heart Zdenka’s love and compassion for others around her, which was never shaken by the injustice she faced. Her incredible forgiveness and stoicism toward her assailants is a remarkable example of her divine nature.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
Why does history tend to repeat itself? How can we prevent it from happening?
Would you like to add anything else?
For more information contact me: www.KikaCicmanec.com
You can also follow me for updates here:
Wild Flower: a story of faith and sacrifice
What are you developing or working on now?
We are currently finishing the feature script of the short film and are very excited about all the interest from production companies so far. The short film is a great tool to develop one’s project further and in greater depth. In addition, we are using it as a little sneak peak of what’s to come.
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We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series and music video. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela
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Film Title: WildFlower: a story of faith and sacrifice
Length: 14:15
Director: Vlad Feier
Producer: Kika Cicmanec
Writer: Kika Cicmanec
About the writer, and producer:
Writer/Producer: Kika Cicmanec
Kika Cicmanec is a Slovak born and German raised actor and writer, who made her way to America through a Division1 Tennis Scholarship. After graduating with a double major from the Journalism College in Nebraska, she moved to LA to receive a Master degree in Fine Arts for Acting in film. She is currently finishing the feature script of “WildFlower: a story of faith and sacrifice,” which has received great interest so far.
Looking for (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists): all the above
Funders: fund raising campaign and self
Made in association with:
Release date: May 2016