Director Stever Details War's Impact on Locarno Film 'I Rarely Wake Up Dreaming'

Director Isabelle Stever and screenwriter Anna Melikova, wife and collaborator, discussed the profound impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine on their film, "I Rarely Wake Up Dreaming," which premiered in the Locarno Film Festival's competition section. The film's production faced significant disruptions due to the altered realities brought about by the conflict, forcing substantial changes to their initial plans. This marks their second creative partnership, following their previous collaboration on "Grand Jeté," which premiered at the Berlinale in 2022. Stever, a German director, and Melikova, a Ukrainian writer, navigated the complexities of shooting in a war-affected country, highlighting the resilience and adaptability required to bring their artistic vision to fruition under such challenging circumstances. The narrative of "I Rarely Wake Up Dreaming" is deeply intertwined with the personal experiences and observations of Melikova, who has been living in Ukraine throughout the conflict. Stever emphasized that the film is not a direct documentary about the war but rather a fictional exploration inspired by the emotional and psychological landscape shaped by the conflict. The creative process involved constant adaptation, with the script undergoing revisions to reflect the evolving situation and the emotional toll on the filmmakers and potential cast and crew. Securing resources and maintaining a stable production environment were paramount concerns, often requiring innovative solutions and a deep commitment to the project's completion. The film's journey to the Locarno Film Festival underscores the international community's interest in stories emerging from conflict zones and the role of cinema in processing and communicating such experiences. Stever and Melikova's candid discussion at the festival provided insight into the personal and professional sacrifices made to complete the film, underscoring the power of art to persevere even in the face of adversity. The film's presence at a major international festival like Locarno serves as a platform to share their narrative and engage with global audiences on themes of resilience, loss, and the human spirit's capacity to endure. The challenges extended beyond logistical hurdles to include the emotional weight of creating art within a context of ongoing trauma and uncertainty. Stever noted that the collaborative nature of their partnership allowed them to support each other through these difficult times, drawing strength from their shared commitment to the project. Melikova's firsthand experience provided an authentic and poignant foundation for the film's narrative, while Stever's directorial expertise guided its cinematic execution. The film's premiere at Locarno represents a significant milestone, offering a testament to their dedication and the artistic merit of "I Rarely Wake Up Dreaming."