Reda Kateb at the FIFCL: A Discussion on “Sur un fil”

The FIFCL was pleased to welcome Reda Kateb and his co-screenwriter Fadette Drouard for a discussion of *Sur un fil*, the actor’s first feature film. A warm and deeply human connection with the audience.

On the occasion of the screening of *Sur un fil*, Reda Kateb and Fadette Drouard met with the audience at the B3 to discuss the film’s origins and their first experience behind the camera.

The project was inspired by the director’s discovery of the work of hospital clowns, particularly through *The Diary of Dr. Giraffe* by Caroline Simmonds, founder of the organization *Le Rire Médecin*. Reading the book immediately sparked a series of images in the director’s mind.

After directing the short film *Pitchoune*, which was screened at the Directors’ Fortnight in Cannes, Reda Kateb set out to make his first feature film without taking on a role himself. It was a deliberate choice that allowed him to devote himself fully to the actors and the direction.

With *Sur un fil*, he sought to showcase the daily lives of these artists who work in pediatric wards to bring sick children moments of play, laughter, and escape. To stay as true as possible to this reality, he placed a particular emphasis on improvisation.

The event also gave Reda Kateb the opportunity to share his vision of the director’s craft, which is based on trust and active listening: “Directing actors and actresses means giving them confidence, loving them, and helping them make the scenes their own.”

A sincere and generous exchange, just like the film itself, which deeply moved the audience at B3.

In conclusion, Reda Kateb said, “I feel like the audience understood me, and that really made an impression on me.”

A wonderful moment of cinema and togetherness that will remain one of the FIFCL’s most memorable events.