About the Project

What is the film about?

LoveTrips is a documentary film about long distance relationships across Europe.

Who are You?

I'm a traveling film director, and my name is Carlo Pisani. I'm Italian, I live in Zurich, and I'm coordinating the project. Other european film-makers that will assist me during various stages of production are: Edmond Laccon a Brit in Tallinn, Pawel Antas a Pole in Barcelona, Gregor Bozic a Slovenian in Berlin, Andres Jud a Swiss in Zurich and Oliver Manzi an Italian in London.

Why are you making this film?

I'm making this film out of necessity and curiosity.

I've been in a long distance relationship for nine years with a lovely Swiss girl called Simone and I would like to shed some light on the trials and tribulations of this long-distance phenomenon by hearing from people that are going through a similar experience.

The necessity to make this film comes from the burning desire to reflect on the world today in a way that is interesting and engaging: I'd like the finished product to be a document of our times, a project that raises questions, a tasty slice of European cake from 2009.

Who are you looking for?

We're looking for couples of any age or sexual orientation that are made up of two different nationalities, and that are currently living in two separate European states.

How many couples will be selected?

The final film will feature one individual from each of the 30 European countries, so a total of 15 couples will be selected.

Why should I take part in this project?

Participating will give you a chance to express your own viewpoint on long distance relationships: you will be providing your insight into what strategies you resort to when coping with the effect that geographic distance has on your relationship, and on how you deal with the cultural differences between you and your partner.

To use 'Schopenhauer's Hedgehog's Dilemma' as an image of reference: human relationships are like hedgehogs trying to survive the winter, if they get too close they risk wounding each other with their spikes, but if they separate, they'll die of cold. In a long distance relationship this situation is physically brought to its extremes: long periods of distance are followed by short and intense bursts of intimacy. How do couples manage the strain of this situation?

We the filmmakers are certain that this film will promote dialogue and understanding, but this project can only come into being if you are willing to share your experiences.

One of the films that triggered the inspiration for this project is 'Talking Heads' by Krzysztof Kieslowski. We hope that by watching this link you'll be inspired as much as we were, and will feel motivated to take part!

How will the film be structured?

The making of the film will comprise two phases: an interview, and a portrait of each of you. In both cases a very small film crew (1 to 3 people) will visit you in your country of residence. Meetings will be organized well in advance and individually tailored so as to weigh as little as possible on your commitments.

The Interview:

More than a conventional interview it will be an informal chat whereby we'll share our experiences on long distance relationships. The atmosphere will be friendly and informal so there is really nothing to fear. Imagine the setting as an impromptu conversation, like a chance meeting on a train.

The Portrait:

By portrait we mean gathering film footage that best illustrates who you are and what you do, be it your work, your leisure time, or your home environment. This process is also informal and will take no longer than a day.

How do I apply?

You can apply by filling in the application form on the site. Please only apply if your partner has a different nationality to yours and lives in a different country.

When will you let me know that my partner and I have been selected?

If you are selected to take part in the film you'll be notified within 4 weeks of your submission. The selection process continues until January 31st 2010. The earlier you apply the sooner you'll know if you've been chosen!

Do I have to speak fluent English to take part in the project?

It would be advantageous, but it's not absolutely necessary. A basic knowledge of English will make proceedings easier, but all the answers to the questions in the interview can be in your native language.

Will I get paid?

Unfortunately not. This is a very ambitious documentary on a very small budget, thus we'll not be able to pay our protagonists.

How is this film being financed?

Initial funding has been secured from The European Cultural Foundation (Eurocult.org) in January 2008.

What will happen to the film once its been completed?

The film will be edited in December 2009. In June 2010 it will be entered to major film festivals worldwide.