Award-winning producer and director, Mike Montagna has landed the prominent Cinéma de Demain at this year’s Cannes Film Festival for his movie La Petite Mort. Now in its 77th year, the film festival is the world’s most prestigious film gathering, as well as its most widely publicized cultural event. Mike Montagna is among the international elite honored by this recognition,and we have the inside scoop on his latest movie offering.
Welcome Mike! Congratulations on being part of Cannes Film Festival. Before we talk about the movie La Petite Mort, how does it feel to be recognized by such an incredible film festival?
Being an official selection of Cinéma de Demain at this year’s Cannes Film Festival for our movie La Petite Mort is an incredible honor. As the associate producer, I feel immense pride and excitement. Cannes is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, and having our work recognized here is a dream come true.
La Petite Mort has been a labor of love for everyone involved. This selection is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and creativity of our entire team and most of all of our director Federica Avagliano. It’s a collective victory for all of us.
Being part of Cinéma de Demain is particularly meaningful as it highlights emerging voices and innovative storytelling. I am proud that La Petite Mort contributes to that conversation. This opportunity not only validates our efforts but also opens doors for future creative endeavors.
I am deeply grateful to the Cannes Film Festival for this honor. It motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of storytelling, and I look forward to sharing La Petite Mort with audiences around the world.
Can you tell us about the movie?
The movie follows the body of a rigorous ballerina, who after surviving a vicious attack, threatens to decay unless she placates a “certain hunger”.
How did you become involved in the project?
When Federica Avagliano, the writer, director, and executive producer of La Petite Mort, first discussed the project with me, it was still in its early stages. The script was far from its final draft, but even from my initial reading, I committed to assisting Federica in bringing her vision to life. The story was clear, and Federica’s powerful storytelling was evident in every line. The characters and their emotions felt profound and genuine, making me eager to be part of this journey.
I derive immense satisfaction from the creative collaboration involved in filmmaking. By working closely with directors, writers, and actors, I apply my expertise to bring a variety of stories to life. Each project presents a unique challenge, whether it’s managing tight schedules and budgets or overcoming unforeseen obstacles, which keeps me constantly engaged and fulfilled. I was more than happy to embrace this challenge for La Petite Mort.
What was your role in the movie?
As a producer for La Petite Mort, I have taken on a wide range of responsibilities, each crucial to the project’s success. From the initial stages of development to the final stages of post-production, I have ensured everything runs smoothly and on schedule.
In the pre-production phase, I have collaborated closely with the producer and director to understand the film’s vision and requirements. My tasks have included coordinating with the writer and helping refine the script, ensuring it aligns with our creative goals. I have also been involved in budgeting, meticulously planning and allocating resources to various departments, making sure we stay within financial constraints.
Casting has been another critical aspect of my role. I have organized auditions, coordinated with casting directors, and assisted in selecting the right actors who can bring our characters to life. Once the cast has been in place, I have handled contracts and negotiations, ensuring all legal aspects are covered.
During production, my job has shifted to being on set, where I have acted as a liaison between the director, cast, and crew. I have overseen daily operations, troubleshooting any issues that arose, and maintained the production schedule. My goal has been to create a harmonious working environment where everyone can perform at their best. I have also managed logistics, from arranging transportation and accommodations for the crew to ensuring that all equipment and locations are ready for shooting.
Post-production has required a different set of skills. Here, I have coordinated with editors, sound designers, and visual effects artists, ensuring that the final product meets our artistic and technical standards. I have also been involved in marketing and distribution strategies, helping to plan film festival submissions, promotional activities, and release schedules.
Throughout the entire process, effective communication and organization have been key. I have constantly updated the production team on progress and any changes, ensuring everyone is on the same page. My role as an associate producer has demanded flexibility, problem-solving abilities, and a deep passion for storytelling. By juggling these diverse responsibilities, I have contributed to the creation of a cohesive and compelling film.
Can you spill any tea from the set?
Have you ever tried to shoot a horror film in a house that it’s supposed to be haunted and mostly… in a cemetery? It’s better to ask the crew and cast if they have any fears previously… so you know exactly what kind of pranks you will do!!
Where did you film?
We filmed in and around Los Angeles. The three main locations are the house, the theater, and the cemetery. It was all very local, and we had a local crew on board too. Great experience.
How can we see it?
Currently it is on festival run and we’re proud to be in the Cannes Film Festival’s Cinéma de Demain this year. The film will be released at the end of the festival run.
Watch the trailer:
This is an incredible achievement, and we are very excited for you. What do you have coming up next?
I’m currently writing the feature film script of my proof of concept short, Sunrise Boulevard, that recently has become an official selection for the LA Shorts International Film Festival and for the Burbank International Film Festival. In a few months I’ll be ready to pitch the feature.
I’m also in the pre-production of my new short proof of concept Mamma, that revolves around a big and not too smart guy who does nothing but take care of his obese mom, until his life is turned upside down when he falls in love with an anorexic girl. All is left to do is tell his Mamma.Stay tuned!
