“A river’s gaze”, interview with director Andreea Cristina Borțun

Exploring the Poetic Depths of Romanian Rural Life

“A River’s Gaze“, included in the Smart7 section of IndieLisboa, offers a reflection on memory, belonging, and nature’s silent witness. It uses the river as a central motif, emphasizing its role as an observing and absorbing presence. Andreea Cristina Borțun’s film follows Lavinia and her son returning home, where the river becomes a silent witness to their lives and the passage of time. The immersive visual and auditory language invites to experience the landscape in a contemplative, sensory manner, highlighting the river’s significance in shaping the story.

A Visual Storytelling

“A River’s Gaze” is rooted in the idea of the river as a silent observer, mirroring the characters’ inner worlds while standing as a physical force in the landscape. The choice of location, an area where the house was built specifically for the film, reinforces the deep connection between the land, water, and personal history. Borțun explains that the river is not just a backdrop, but an active participant in the narrative, providing a sense of continuity and spiritual presence across seasons.

Creating a Sensory Experience Through Sound and Silence

The director emphasizes the importance of sensory immersion, working closely with sound designer Florent Klockenbring to craft a rich auditory landscape. The balance of sound and silence enhances the sense of intimacy and authenticity, drawing viewers into the quiet, meditative world of the rural landscape and its silent witness, the river.

The Hybridity of Documentary and Fiction

The film’s hybrid approach of blending documentary and fiction opens new avenues for storytelling. By working with non-professional actors and real environments, Andreea Cristina Borțun maintains an authentic, vivid portrayal of rural life that resists artificiality. The commitment to natural environments and real people creates a more experience, while also challenging conventional cinematic structures.

 

Plot