What is the short film “Lion” about?
It’s a story of revenge, and like my colleague Michael Segal has well described in his interview, it’s about the hope.
What was the experience like for you when taking part in this film?
Certainly it has been the most important experience of this year. It’s been amazing!
How did you get the part?
I responded to a casting call in Malaga and I did all the things that Davide said me. He made me sweat a lot hahahahaha. After few days the casting director Carlos Bahos called me and told me that the role was mine.
What can you tell us about the character of Amanda?
Amanda is like any woman victim of patriarchy: she’s strong, tough with her son, but she’s unable to rebel against her husband.
Did you do anything special to prepare for this role?
I closed my eyes and I began to live the role and the story, by using many techniques. I have to say that I’m lucky, because in real life I have never been as Amanda.
Were there any particular challenges for you in this film – if so, what?
The cold… It was dawn and I was under the bed, wearing only a nightgown. I was freezing!
Film critics around the world are waiting for “Lion”. What should they expect from the film?
A masterpiece, like all Davide Melini’s films. It’s been a real gift for me… I’m proud to be in one of his films.
What was it like working with Davide Melini on the film?
It can sound like a cliché but Davide is really fantastic! He is a professional who also sees the human side of people. Many directors know how to do a film, but they have no idea how to explain to the actor what they really want. Davide knows both things! He explains to you exactly what he wants and then he leaves you free … free to express your art. With him, I worked at 100%. I have wonderful memories of filming with him!
What projects you have coming up next?
Actually I’m working on a theater project, entitled “Lluvia Fina”, with Nacho and Paco Bernal Albert and in a theater company called Tetateatro, where we do children shows… I’m happy to say that very soon I will start to work for a web series (I’m the lead actress) and I’m going to shoot the first short film, written by myself.
IMDB: Tania Mercader
