Justine Triet’s Cannes Palme d’Or winner, “Anatomy of a Fall,” has reached new heights in its awards-season journey, clinching an impressive five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. This recognition is not only a personal milestone for Triet but also a historic moment as she becomes the first French female filmmaker to be nominated for Best Director at the Oscars.
In an exclusive interview from her home in Paris, Triet expressed her joy and disbelief at the nominations. At 45, she acknowledges the significance of this recognition, particularly in light of the evolution of the film industry for women, having experienced a time before the MeToo movement. She emphasizes the impact this achievement can have on the industry, especially for the younger generation of filmmakers.
Triet admitted that the news took her by surprise, and the Best Director nomination holds a special place in her heart. She reflects on the changing landscape for women in the film industry, expressing excitement about the positive transformations that lie ahead.
Anatomy of a Fall’s journey to the Oscars was unexpected for Triet, given the film’s independent nature, modest budget, and its presence in the realm of independent cinema. Triet recounts a meeting with Academy CEO Bill Kramer during the Telluride Film Festival, where he playfully mentioned seeing them again “next March.” The reality of this statement only sank in when the nominations were officially announced.
Triet shares her emotional reaction to seeing her editor Laurent Sénėchal’s name on the Best Editing list, highlighting the dedication and hard work that went into crafting the film. She admits to shedding tears, a stark contrast to winning the Palme d’Or, showcasing the deep connection she shares with her team.
Despite facing disappointment when French cinema authorities chose another film as the country’s official International Oscar selection, “Anatomy of a Fall” managed to overcome this setback. Triet acknowledges the campaign that rallied support for the film and propelled it to the Oscars, proving that a powerful narrative can triumph over bureaucratic decisions.
Triet emphasizes that the non-selection was not reflective of the general public’s sentiment but rather the decision of a few individuals. She expresses gratitude for surpassing this obstacle and believes the film’s success extends beyond national boundaries.
Justine Triet’s journey with “Anatomy of a Fall” is a testament to the resilience of independent cinema and the power of storytelling. The film’s unexpected success at the Oscars not only marks a personal achievement for Triet but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers, especially women, navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry. As the awards season unfolds, “Anatomy of a Fall” stands as a shining example of triumph against the odds, reinforcing the belief that a compelling narrative can indeed transcend boundaries and make a lasting impact on the cinematic world.