Best Director Takako Miyahira, 30.

How did you manage to get him on your cast?

I was very lucky. Daniel was half-retiring and taking a five-year break from acting. He was going through a divorce and was not acting recently. The casting director read the script, knew that he was back in Quebec and recommended him.

What about budget problems?

We applied for Quebec government grant. They have a supporting system for films and we applied for lighting and production funding. I also got a grant from a Japanese foundation and I used private money from a bank loan.

What advice can you give to aspiring filmmakers?

You must have the heart. If you believe you have somerhing to say to people, please don't give up. Of course bad things happen along the way but just don't care about it. Keep walking.

What's your next project?

I'm thinking of a project based in my hometown but it's not ready yet. I need time to write.

Where do you find your motivation to realise your dreams?

I want to make a movie that I want to see. This is my motivation. I'm so happy if the audience share the same sentiments as me, that's why I'm so happy to receive this prize.