Introduction to a New Film Project
Mexican film director Carlos Reygadas, known for winning the Best Director award at Cannes in 2012 for his film "After the Dark Light", is set to executive produce a new drama called "Black Star Gel". This upcoming film is the work of emerging director Christine Haroutounian, an Armenian filmmaker from the US.
The Director’s Background
Haroutounian’s debut feature film, "After Dreaming", premiered at the Berlinale this year and is also showing in Busan. She was selected for the Asian Project Market (APM), which took place from September 20 to 23 at the Asian Contents & Film Market, alongside the Busan International Film Festival. The APM provided a platform for Haroutounian to meet with potential financial, co-production, and international sales partners for her new project.
The New Film Project: Black Star Gel
"Black Star Gel" tells the story of a woman’s life after a war, partially inspired by real events following the Nagorno-Karabagh War in 2020. The film will use an "abrupt, physical, and kinetic" approach to portray the recruitment of female conscripts. With a proposed budget of less than $1 million, the project has already secured $200,000 from the Cinema Foundation of Armenia and $75,000 in private equity. The shoot is scheduled to start by spring 2027.
Production and Funding
The producers of "Black Star Gel" are Haroutounian and Maxwell Schwartz from Mankazar Film, a production company based in Eriwan and Los Angeles. The film will be shot in locations including Jerusalem, Armenia, and Paris. Carlos Reygadas’ support for the project is seen as a significant endorsement, with Haroutounian stating that his recognition and respect mean a lot to her as a director.
The Director’s Experience and Previous Work
Haroutounian’s short film credits include "World", which was selected for Rotterdam in 2020 and won the Golden Apricot Stone Prize at the Golden Apricot International Film Festival in Eriwan. Her debut feature film, "After Dreaming", was picked up by UK-France outfit Alief after its world premiere in the Berlinale Forum. The film is described as "hyper-specific" to the Armenian diaspora experience, yet it has resonated with people from all over the world.
The Road Ahead
With the financing for "Black Star Gel" currently coming together, Haroutounian is meeting with potential partners at the APM in Busan. She has found the experience to be "excellent" so far, with many useful meetings and a positive response to her film "After Dreaming". As she moves forward with her new project, Haroutounian is grateful for the support of Carlos Reygadas and excited to bring her vision to life on the big screen.
