Jaume Claret Muxart interview on Strange River at Venice Film Festival 2025: Family journeys

Jaume Claret Muxart interview on Strange River at Venice Film Festival 2025: Family journeys, coming of age, mystery & filming on 16mm

Jaume Claret Muxart describes the story of a family cycling along the Danube, focusing on Dak, a 16-year-old boy navigating the mysteries of adolescence and a chance encounter with an enigmatic figure in the river. He discusses drawing inspiration from his own childhood travels across European rivers, using these memories to craft a cinematic exploration of possibility and imagination.

Claret Muxart explains how the film’s progression mirrors the river’s growth, with evolving camera techniques and natural lighting to evoke openness and transformation. He speaks about his choice to shoot on 16mm film, valuing its texture and the heightened focus it brings to the set. Claret Muxart highlights the role of Max Bill’s School of Design, a nod to his architect father, and describes the creative process behind choreographing scenes in this architectural space.

He discusses casting, emphasising the importance of mystery and authenticity in his young actors, and details the challenges of filming underwater and in natural pools. Ultimately, Claret Muxart views Strange River as a poetic coming-of-age tale that resists clichés, exploring family dynamics, imagination, and the ambiguities of youth.

Interviewer: Christina Yang
Editing: Olivia Barker

►► Haven't subscribed yet? Do it now! https://theupcoming.co.uk/YouTube ◄◄

Connect with The Upcoming:
Our Website ►► https://www.theupcoming.co.uk
Instagram ►►   / theupcoming  
TikTok ►►   / theupcomingmagazine  
Twitter / X ►►   / the_upcoming  
Facebook ►►   / theupcomingmagazine  

📩 For syndication enquiries: syndication@theupcoming.co.uk