Meet the Director

– A SERIES

This is “Meet the Director,” an interview series dedicated to delving into the imaginative worlds our talented filmmakers.

After all, what better way to understand their work than by hearing directly from the minds behind the camera? Join us as we explore the creative processes and motivations that shape their cinematic visions.

EPISODE I: with Bodhi Le Belle

How did you get into the world of filmmaking?

I think it started when I was around ten years old. I sat on the couch with my dad laughing about a great ‘Even Apeldoorn Bellen’ – commercial. We joked that it must be a hilarious job to make these. Back then I didn’t realize it is actually something you can do for work. Glad I found out later. After that I just started filming stuff. I didn’t go to film school, so I learned by just doing and working with a bunch of great people that taught me a lot. Also watched many movies, read a good deal of books and wrote a lot of scripts that didn’t make it, haha. That helps to do it better next time.

How would you describe your style? Are there any themes that are prevalent throughout your work?

It always feels a bit odd to describe your own style, so I’d rather say something about what I like to make and strive for. I enjoy making stories that have a witty and intelligent sense of humour. It can range from dry and subtle to the absurd. In my work I like to portray odd characters and ground them in reality, give them a sense of humanity. Something we can relate to. Always making sure my films have a clear narrative and depict the humor of life. Whatever happens to the characters, could happen to the best of us. Even in absurd circumstances. These stories, I like to tell with a strong visual and cinematic style. I take my comedy very seriously, with a great attention to detail. I try to create a distinct universe for every story, to make it stand out and be memorable.

How do you approach the creative process when developing a new film concept or idea?

With a lot of fun and a sharp sense for detail. I always try to find the part about the project that inspires me. Something that hooks and needs more exploring. Could be a universal truth, a great twist or a witty character. Then gathering a lot of notes, pictures, scenes. I find it helpful to write ideas down or even draw shots in a storyboard to structure the story. It helps to narrow it down to the core. Then talking to people about the concept. In a way it’s your first audience. They know nothing and need to understand the story within a minute. A good way to test if you can tell something that short in a clear and captivating way. When I’m stuck in thought I go ride my motorbike or go kitesurfing, it helps to keep the flow going.

What inspires you and influences your storytelling?

Really old commercials. In a way, I always happen to draw a reference from those. Daring concepts. Brands that take risks. They stand out. Sometimes they’re hard to find, but the search is rewarding. Same goes with movies. Always on the hunt to find the good old ones and the classics or trying to see the new releases in cinema every month. Directors that inspire me are Anders Thomas Jensen, Jean-Pierre Jeunet and the Coen Brothers.

What’s your dream project?

Something that includes traveling. I love to travel, so it would be great if the story takes place in a very beautiful remote and specific location. Would love to shoot a beer commercial like ‘Big Ad’ for Carlton Draught in New Zealand or something very cinematic like ‘The Closet’ for Canal+. Oh! And shooting a Danish comedy written by Anders Thomas Jensen.

What is essential to you when you are on set?

Nice people with good vibes, that enjoy the work and have passion for what we are doing. I love to work with all the quirky, funny and talented people in this industry. As a director, it’s my job to gather the right people around me to make the film together. And not to forget: enough food. A happy crew has a full belly.

Can you share a lesser-known fact about yourself that we might find interesting?

I was named after a character in the movie Point Break where Patrick Swayze plays Bodhi, a surfer dude who robs banks. Not that I want to rob banks, but I like surfing.