Claire Denis to Direct Cannibalistic Crime Thriller “The Soap Maker”
Table of Contents
- 1. Claire Denis to Direct Cannibalistic Crime Thriller “The Soap Maker”
- 2. How does the film “The Soap Maker” distinguish itself from other cannibalistic crime thrillers like “Silence of the Lambs,” “Seven,” and “Get Out”?
- 3. Exclusive: Claire Denis Discusses Her Upcoming Thriller “The Soap Maker”
- 4. Claire Denis on Directing “The Soap Maker”
- 5. Recreating Leonarda Cianciulli’s Crimes on Screen
- 6. Masterful Direction and Stellar Support
- 7. Pushing Cinematic Boundaries and Challenging Narratives
Renowned French filmmaker Claire Denis is in advanced discussions to helm “the Soap Maker,” a chilling crime drama centered around cannibalism. The project, being packaged by CAA and presented at the European Film Market (EFM), is described as a dark and psychological thriller reminiscent of classics like “Silence of the Lambs,” “Seven,” and “Get Out.”
“The soap Maker” is set to be shot on location in Italy, promising a visually captivating backdrop for the sinister narrative. The film is based on the real-life crimes of Leonarda Cianciulli,a notorious Italian serial killer who earned the moniker “The Soap Maker” for using the fat of her victims in homemade soap. Producers have acquired the rights to both the screenplay for Bolognini’s film “Gran Bollito” and Cianciulli’s alleged diary.
“The apparent witchcraft Leonarda used to attract her victims will be accurately recreated from her asylum diary,” according to promotional materials for the film.
Denis, known for her critically acclaimed works such as “Beau Travail,” “Trouble Every Day,” “35 Rhums,” and “Both Sides of the Blade,” brings a rich history of exploring complex human themes and pushing cinematic boundaries. Her upcoming project, “The Cry of the Guards,” further demonstrates her commitment to challenging narratives.
The talented team behind “the Soap Maker” includes producers gerry Pass (Chrome Entertainment), Lucas Foster (“Ford v Ferrari,” “Crimson Tide”), and Salvatore Sclafani (“The Hermit”).
the combination of Denis’s masterful direction, a gripping true-crime premise, and a stellar supporting cast promises to make “The Soap Maker” a captivating and unsettling cinematic experience.
How does the film “The Soap Maker” distinguish itself from other cannibalistic crime thrillers like “Silence of the Lambs,” “Seven,” and “Get Out”?
Exclusive: Claire Denis Discusses Her Upcoming Thriller “The Soap Maker”
Ahead of the European Film Market presentation, Archyde caught up with renowned filmmaker Claire Denis to discuss her latest project, “The Soap Maker,” a chilling crime drama centered around cannibalism and inspired by the real-life crimes of Italian serial killer Leonarda Cianciulli.
Claire Denis on Directing “The Soap Maker”
Archyde: Your new project, “The Soap Maker,” is a dark and psychological thriller. What drew you to this real-life story and the prospect to helm this film?
Claire Denis: I’ve always been fascinated by the darker aspects of human nature, and when I read about Leonarda Cianciulli, I was concurrently horrified and intrigued. Her ability to lure her victims using witchcraft-like practices is deeply unsettling, but also provides an opportunity to explore the complexities of evil and its allure.
archyde: The film is being compared to classics like “Silence of the Lambs,” “Seven,” and “Get Out.” How do you see “the Soap Maker” fitting into these cinematic conversations?
Claire Denis: It’s an honor to be mentioned alongside those films. I think “The Soap Maker” fits into this conversation as it’s a genre-blending exploration of evil, much like those films. though, I hope to bring my unique perspective as a French filmmaker and a woman to the genre, offering a fresh take on the cannibalistic crime thriller.
Recreating Leonarda Cianciulli’s Crimes on Screen
archyde: Producers have acquired the rights to both the screenplay for “Gran Bollito” and Cianciulli’s alleged diary. How are you approaching the delicate task of recreating her crimes for the screen?
Claire Denis: It’s crucial to balance storytelling with sensitivity and respect for the victims and their families. I plan to delve into Leonarda’s psyche,exploring what drives her to commit such heinous acts,rather than sensationalizing the violence. We’ll be using her diary as a foundation for authentic portrayal, while also creating a compelling narrative.
Masterful Direction and Stellar Support
Archyde: With a talented team including producers Gerry Pass, Lucas Foster, and Salvatore Sclafani, what can audiences expect from “The Soap Maker”?
Claire Denis: A captivating, unsettling cinematic experience that stays with them long after the final credits roll.I’m thrilled to be working with such an accomplished team, and I’m confident that our collective efforts will result in a unique and challenging film that leaves a lasting impact.
Pushing Cinematic Boundaries and Challenging Narratives
Archyde: Your upcoming project, “The Cry of the Guards,” further demonstrates your commitment to challenging narratives. Can you give us a tease of what to expect from “The Soap Maker”?
claire denis: Just as “The Cry of the Guards” explores complex human themes through a unique lens, “The Soap Maker” will delve into the depravity and evil that resides within some of us. It will challenge audiences, provoke thought, and perhaps even leave them questioning their own morality.
Archyde: Thank you, Claire, for taking the time to speak with us about “The Soap Maker.” We eagerly await its release and the opportunity to discuss it further.
claire Denis: Thank you. I’m excited for audiences to experience the film and engage with its thought-provoking themes.