Simon Catillon's Short Film Lucien Screened at NYIFA Event
On January 20th, Lucien was screened alongside other award-winning short films at the Producers Club as part of a special event organized by the New York International Film Awards (NYIFA). For Simon Catillon, it was an opportunity to connect with audiences and discover the work of talented filmmakers and artists.
“Watching Lucien in a theater, surrounded by passionate people, was truly special. This film started as something very intimate, and now it’s traveling, reaching new audiences—it’s an incredible feeling.”
Simon Catillon – Photo: JINYC - Jinnifer Douglass Photography for NYIFA
Set in Central Park, Lucien pays homage to mime, a practice deeply rooted in French tradition. The film was praised by NYIFA, where it won Best Actor (for Simon’s performance) and Best Silent Film in the August 2024 edition.
“It makes me so happy to see that mime—a poetic and silent art form—still resonates today, especially in the U.S. There’s something almost magical about how it transcends cultural differences, speaking directly to the heart without a single word.
Lucien tells the story of an artist grappling with the loss of meaning, questioning whether to keep performing or let go. But beyond art, isn’t that something we all face at some point? That moment when what once fueled us starts to feel empty? Who hasn’t felt the weight of doubt, the pull between holding on and giving up? In the end, Lucien finds hope again through an unexpected connection with a stranger. At its core, the film explores our innate need to relate to one another—to share, to be seen and understood, to feel that we are not alone.”
After the screening, Simon was interviewed on stage to discuss the film and share his insights into its creative process. He also gave the audience a glimpse into his next project:
“I’m currently preparing my first feature film, which I wrote and will direct in the coming months. It’s an exciting step, and I can’t wait to bring this project to life.”
Simon attended the screening with actress Flora Banhegyi, who stars in Tri Sestry, a short film he directed, along with his mother and his sister Maryaline Catillon, co-producer of his multi-award-winning short film Lullaby.
Simon Catillon with (from left to right) his mother, actress Flora Banhegyi, and his sister Maryaline Catillon, co-producer of the short film Lullaby.
Photo: JINYC – Jinnifer Douglass Photography for NYIFA.
“Filmmaking is never a solo journey. It’s about working with people you trust, who inspire you, and who become like family. Having my loved ones with me meant so much—it felt like we weren’t just celebrating the success of a film, but sharing something deeper, a common vision we build together, through art and creation.”
The event was a vibrant celebration of independent cinema, a reminder of how storytelling can bring people together. Simon is grateful to NYIFA for this opportunity and to everyone who attended and engaged with the film.
“A film truly comes to life when people watch it, react to it, and make it their own. That, for me, is the very essence and magic of cinema.”
To learn more about NYIFA’s inspiring winners and upcoming events,
visit their website at : https://newyorkinternationalfilmawards.com