Bright Light's of Little Paris - my first passion project„
Short film “The Bright Lights of Little Paris” you have a special place in my heart because it was the first project I was also producer, and actress At the same time. For this reason, I consider it my first „passion project” really, a film that pushed my boundaries and showed me how much I love what I do.
I fondly remember the moment I first read the script. It was one of five texts written by the director Robert Eugen Popa, from which I was to choose for our collaboration. I read them all in one evening and, although each had its own authenticity, “Bright Lights of Little Paris” had something special. A peculiar mystery, an energy that draws you in as an actor and sparks your imagination, curiosity, and passion.
After the first read-through, the script went through many changes to reach its final form, so my character became more and more personal. Robert proposed that the character take my name so that he could give me a little confidence in the acting process.
From the first read to the final version, the script went through many changes, and my character became more and more personal. Robert suggested that the character even bear my name., “Alexia”, to give me confidence in the acting process. And I think it was one of the best decisions – because most of the nuances and decisions I made for the character stemmed from my personal life. This allowed me to focus on the production side as well, without losing the authenticity of the role. The emotions were high, but the satisfaction was equally rewarding.
First day of filming – challenges and emotions
The short film takes place in a penitentiary, so two of the four filming days we had at Jilava Penitentiary. The first day came with many obstacles: the team's transport, which required a special minivan, rigorous checks at the entrance, and, above all, the ban on using phones inside. It was a shock for the whole team, as both the actors and the crew members relied on their phones for notes, scripts, or technical details. I remember how the actor Paul Diaconescu They had to learn long phrases in French without being able to quickly check the pronunciation on their phones. Each department needed time to adapt.
Beyond the logistical challenges, my emotions as an actress were even more intense. My character, “Alexia,” was going through complex states: she was the older sister hiding her suffering to protect her younger brother, but also a young woman marked by the absence of her father who was in prison. In real life, I didn't have a younger brother, so I tried to imagine what it would have been like to be in my older sibling's shoes and relate to his care for me. I combined these imagination exercises with my own experiences from moments when I felt abandoned or alone. It was difficult, but also liberating.
An unforgettable meeting – Maia Morgenstern
One of the most emotional and overwhelming moments in this project was collaborating with Mrs Maia Morgenstern. Playing alongside such a great actress, whom I had always admired on stage and screen, was an honour that I can hardly describe in words. I remember that in the first few minutes on set I was overwhelmed with emotion and afraid of making a mistake.
Maia, however, has her own special way of conveying security and giving you confidence. She made me feel that what I was doing had value, that I was there for a reason. I learned enormously from the way she lived every line, every silence, every gesture. Her energy changed the dynamics of the scenes and inspired me to take my character further than I thought I could. I believe this is one of those rare experiences that you receive early in your career and that stay with you forever in your heart.
Lessons from the set
The first day of filming was the hardest for the whole crew. Extreme temperatures – boiling heat outside and freezing cold inside – tested both the actors and the technical team. Rapid costume changes, constant adaptations, and improvisations became part of our life on set. I was lucky that my scene was scheduled for the end of the day, so for the rest of the time, I was able to help the crew and observe the whole process, which taught me enormously about production work.
Although “The Bright Lights of Little Paris” It was one of the most challenging projects I've worked on so far, and also one of the most beautiful. I learned to combine acting with production, to adapt quickly and to live each moment intensely. I discovered what it truly means to work as a team, to overcome obstacles and to enjoy every moment when you do what you love.
It was my first „passion project” and I hope it's just the beginning of a journey full of projects that bring me the same joy and fulfilment. Here's to many more experiences like “The Bright Lights of Little Paris”!
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