Romanian director Radu Jude offers a glimpse into his creative process during a recent Zoom interview, revealing a collection of texts and images that inspire his brazen visions of Romanian history and contemporary life. His latest film, “Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World,” follows the story of Angela, a film production assistant navigating the streets of Bucharest in a black comedy that intertwines scenes from the present-day with colorful clips from the 1980s.
Jude, known for melding tragedy and farce in his work, draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including art, literature, street ads, and social media. His unconventional approach to filmmaking has earned him international recognition, with his previous film “Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn” winning the Golden Bear award.
In his latest film, Jude collaborates with actress Ilinca Manolache, who brings a punk energy to her role as Angela through inspiration from Andy Warhol movies and performances by Nico of “The Velvet Underground.” Manolache’s character, Angela, also channels an online alter-ego named Bobita, created independently of the film but incorporated into frenzied outbursts throughout.
Jude’s innovative approach to storytelling and his willingness to explore new mediums, such as TikTok, set him apart as a modern voice in cinema. He challenges traditional norms and pushes the boundaries of the art form, drawing comparisons to the likes of Jean-Luc Godard for his political commentary and experimentation with new media.
As Jude continues to evolve as a filmmaker, he remains committed to discovering the beauty in all kinds of images and pushing cinema in new directions. His upcoming projects, including a Dracula adaptation, highlight his playful and improvisatory spirit, proving that sometimes the best ideas come from unexpected places.
