“Two Neighbors,” Interview with Director Ondine Vinao, Actor Ralph Ineson, Actor Jake Simmance, Producer Ivy Freeman-Attwood

In an exclusive interview at the 78th Edinburgh International Film Festival 2025, director Ondine Vinao, stars Ralph Ineson and Jake Simmance, and producer Ivy Freeman-Attwood discuss the creative process behind “Two Neighbors“. This dark comedy, inspired by Aesop’s fables, is premiering in competition at Edinburgh and marks Vinao’s European debut. Critics are praising it as a “heady cocktail,” blending elements of “Saltburn“, “The Substance“, and Ruben Östlund’s satirical style.

A Modern take on womanhood and society

Vinao elaborates on the film’s exploration of contemporary womanhood, contrasting the characters of Becky (Anya Chalotra), an aspiring writer, and Stacy (Chloe Cherry), a spoiled socialite launching a body-positive underwear line. She underscores the ironic use of the Italian song “Mala Femina“ in a key scene, explaining it’s not a direct judgment of Becky but a commentary on societal expectations placed on women. Critics note Vinao’s impressive technical command of the medium, which enhances the film’s sharp storytelling.

Visual storytelling and character worlds

Production designer Lili Lea Abraham creates striking visual distinctions for the characters’ worlds. Stacy’s character embodies luxury, wandering her vast family estate, while Becky inhabits a cramped, dingy flat under the Brooklyn Bridge. This visual duality underscores the social and personal contrasts driving the narrative.

Insights into the characters

Jake Simmance offers fascinating insights into his portrayal of Stacy’s troubled brother, Sebastian. He reveals that Sebastian was inspired by a real-life online personality, emphasizing the character’s connection to contemporary digital culture. Simmance also shares how Ondine Vinao allowed him to craft a playlist that helped channel Sebastian’s volatile emotions, highlighting the importance of music in shaping his performance.

Ralph Ineson and the creative environment

Ralph Ineson, who plays the enigmatic Genie, reflects on his preference for working with female directors, praising the respectful, collaborative environment they foster. He compares this experience to his work on larger Hollywood productions like “Fantastic Four“, emphasizing that his role remains the same: to bring the character to life, regardless of the film’s budget or scope.

Setting and cinematic style

The film’s climactic party at Stacy’s father’s estate becomes a dramatic battleground. The story’s divided into six chapters, and the camera work captures the cavernous, oppressive atmosphere of the country mansion, enhancing the film’s tense, suspenseful mood.

Challenges and rewards of independent filmmaking

Producer Ivy Freeman-Attwood discusses the hurdles and victories of producing a low-budget independent film. She highlights the importance of creative freedom to realize the film’s unique vision. Both she and Ineson emphasize how initial enthusiasm, naive optimism, and determination allowed them to overcome obstacles and preserve artistic integrity throughout production.

A provocative and visually arresting film

“Two Neighbors” promises to be a provocative, visually stunning film offering a fresh, timely perspective on modern relationships, societal pressures, and the complexities of human connection. With its bold storytelling and rich visual style, the film aims to challenge and engage audiences, sparking meaningful conversations about the world we live in today.

Plot