The theme of death runs through your filmography. This time, the approach is even more frontal. Did you feel, at 75, that it was the right time to move in this direction?
It’s not calculated. I start because an idea inspires me or because a novel touches me deeply. For example, for this film, a chapter from a book by Sigrid Nunez had a profound impact on me. In this passage, Martha, the character played by Tilda, explains to Ingrid, played by Julianne Moore, that she wants to choose how to end her life and wishes to be accompanied. This pushed me to explore themes like mortality and friendship. I suppose the passage of time also influences my writing and, as a result, my themes today are more serious than those I addressed before.
Was avoiding being too dark on such a subject one of your concerns?
Absolutely. The subject is heavy, but I didn’t want a sordid film. My goal was to stay faithful to the personality of Tilda Swinton’s character, a lively, baroque woman full of energy. I wanted to talk about death as a vital act, a decision that is part of life. This is why I opted for bright and vibrant colors.
