In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, few journeys are as compelling as that of Lorenzo Harani. From his academic roots in Mathematics to his emergence as a notable French-Algerian actor and film director, Harani’s path is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. His latest short film, “Home,” which delves into the poignant narratives of asylum seekers, has not only garnered critical acclaim but also underscored his commitment to meaningful cinema. As he gears up for his next project, inspired by Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World,” Harani shares his insights and experiences, offering a glimpse into the mind of a multifaceted artist who seamlessly balances acting and directing.
Indie Shorts Mag: Can you tell our readers a bit about your journey from studying Mathematics to becoming a film director? What inspired this transition?
Lorenzo Harani: My journey from studying Mathematics to becoming an actor and film director might sound unconventional, but looking back, it feels like a natural progression. Mathematics taught me to think critically and solve problems creatively, which are skills I find incredibly useful in filmmaking.
After studying drama in Paris and London, I worked as an actor in France and the UK. Over time, I became increasingly drawn to storytelling, which led me to explore writing and filmmaking. One pivotal moment was when I discovered how much I loved building visual narratives, after directing my first short film. I realized that my true passion was in creating worlds and telling stories, and I decided to take the step into filmmaking. It wasn’t easy, but every project I’ve worked on made it clear that this is where I belong.
Indie Shorts Mag: How have your experiences as an actor, both in France and the UK, influenced your approach to directing?
Lorenzo Harani: My experiences as an actor in France and the UK have shaped my approach to directing in many ways. Acting taught me the importance of nuance and connection with the character. It also helped me understand how to communicate with actors and guide them to give their best performances while allowing room for their creativity.
Having worked in both French and UK contexts, I’ve learned to adapt my directing style to fit different approaches to acting. Overall, my acting background makes me more empathetic and collaborative, creating a supportive environment on set where actors feel comfortable and free to express themselves.
Indie Shorts Mag: Your latest short film “Home” tackles the significant issue of asylum seekers. What drew you to this subject, and what message do you hope viewers take away from the film?
Lorenzo Harani: The issue of asylum seekers is something that resonates with me, especially after I volunteered with young people through the charity Compass Collective in London. I wanted to explore their stories in Home, focusing on the emotional side of their experiences and the feeling of displacement many face.
Through the film, I hope to highlight the universal need for belonging and remind viewers that behind every statistic is a person with a unique story. The message I want people to take away is empathy and compassion—to understand that the search for safety and a place to call home is a deeply human experience.
Indie Shorts Mag: Can you share any memorable experiences or insights from your time working on the BBC drama “The ABC Murders” with John Malkovich?
Lorenzo Harani: Working on The ABC Murders was a memorable experience. Alex Gabassi is a director with a great sense of empathy and subtlety. He has a unique ability to spot exactly what’s needed to make a performance feel authentic and true. He’s also a very warm person, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
Working alongside John Malkovich was like a masterclass. As someone who grew up watching his films, it was incredibly special to have a scene with him. Despite his fame, he was very approachable and humble, completely dedicated to his role. I learned so much from observing him.
Overall, the entire team was incredibly skilled and friendly, making the whole experience both professional and rewarding.
Indie Shorts Mag: Your films have been selected for several prestigious festivals. How have these experiences shaped your career and what advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers submitting to festivals?
Lorenzo Harani: Having my films selected for prestigious festivals has been rewarding and has helped shape my career. It’s allowed me to connect with a broader audience, network with fellow filmmakers, and receive valuable feedback that’s guided my growth as a director.
For aspiring filmmakers submitting to festivals, my advice is to stay true to your vision and be persistent. Don’t let rejections discourage you. Research festivals that align with your work, and remember, it’s not just about recognition, but finding the right platform for your story.
Indie Shorts Mag: What was the inspiration behind your upcoming short film based on Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”? Can you give our readers a sneak peek into what they can expect?
Lorenzo Harani: The inspiration behind my upcoming short film, which is influenced by Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World, comes from a mix of classic dystopian films like Equilibrium, Brazil, Children of Men, and the TV series Mr. Robot. I’ve always been fascinated by stories that explore totalitarian societies, the loss of individuality, and the search for personal freedom.
While the project is still in the writing process, you can expect a thought-provoking exploration of a dystopian world where control and conformity are at the heart of society.
Indie Shorts Mag: How do you balance your acting and directing careers? Do you find that they complement each other?
Lorenzo Harani: I see my acting and directing careers as two sides of the same coin. While they’re distinct, each brings something valuable to the other. Acting allows me to express myself and my emotions, while directing gives me the ability to shape a story and guide actors. The two roles feed into each other, offering a deeper understanding of both the creative process and how to communicate a story effectively.
Indie Shorts Mag: As a French-Algerian filmmaker based in London, how has your multicultural background influenced your storytelling and your approach to filmmaking?
Lorenzo Harani: My multicultural background, with influences from French, Algerian, and Italian cultures, has shaped my storytelling and approach to filmmaking. Growing up in such a diverse environment, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for themes of identity, belonging, and diversity.
Indie Shorts Mag: What challenges have you faced in the film industry, and how have you overcome them?
Lorenzo Harani: A challenge I’ve faced is creating impactful projects with minimal resources. To overcome this, I’ve embraced minimalist filmmaking—focusing on strong storytelling, creative use of space, and small, dedicated teams to bring my vision to life without the need for large budgets.
Indie Shorts Mag: Lastly, what upcoming projects or collaborations can our readers look forward to from you?
Lorenzo Harani: Besides my dystopian project, I’m also planning a documentary about childhood and its impact on shaping who we become. I’m also exploring animation, inspired by the work of Hayao Miyazaki.
Lorenzo Harani’s journey from the world of numbers to the realm of narratives is a story of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of authentic storytelling. As he continues to push the boundaries of his craft, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the search for freedom, Harani’s work serves as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers and a beacon for meaningful cinema. With upcoming projects that promise to delve deeper into the human experience, Lorenzo Harani is a name to watch in the world of independent filmmaking.
Lorenzo’s short Home was featured on Short of the Month for its December 2024 competition and won first place with 53 votes. Check out Home on Short of the Month.
