THE INTERVIEW
Juin, 2025
TOMA ENACHE
DIRECTORS OF ENESCU
BEST COSTUME
Toma, tell us a bit more about yourself. Where does your desire to be a director come from?
My journey as a filmmaker and theater director is deeply intertwined with my Aromanian heritage and my passion for storytelling. I have an insatiable desire to bring untold stories to life—stories that deserve to be remembered and shared.
From my first feature film, I’m Not Famous but I’m Aromanian, to Between Pain and Amen and now to Enescu, skinned alive, I have sought to explore narratives that are often overlooked in history. Whether it’s the cultural identity of the Aromanian people, the haunting realities of political oppression or the life of a brilliant composer, my work reflects a deep commitment to truth and emotional intensity.
Cinema and theater are powerful mediums for preserving and honoring memory, and through them, I strive to create works that resonate beyond entertainment—works that move audiences, challenge perceptions, and, above all, give voice to stories that must not be forgotten.
What is your background?
My artistic journey has been shaped by a fusion of disciplines, cultures, and passions. I have always had an innate desire to tell stories that resonate beyond time and borders. My work spans multiple creative fields—cinema, theater, poetry, and translation—each contributing to my vision as a director. I have dedicated myself to bringing lesser-known historical narratives to the forefront. My films, features or documentaries, reflect my commitment to preserving cultural identity and exploring profound human experiences. Through directing, I seek to craft immersive worlds where history, emotion and artistry converge. Whether on stage or screen, my goal remains to create works that challenge, inspire, and endure.
What were your references for Enescu?
For Enescu, Skinned Alive, I immersed myself in extensive research to ensure a faithful representation of George Enescu’s life and legacy. Before I wrote the script I read all personal letters, compositions, historical accounts and books of memoirs, which provided invaluable insight into the characters’ artistic and emotional world. Tat is how I discovered the depth of a beautiful love story and the emotional turmoil Enescu endured. Enescu’s own music was, naturally, a cornerstone of my inspiration. His compositions are filled with passion, complexity, and a deep connection to Romanian culture, and I wanted the film to reflect that same richness. I also collaborated with composer Sebastian Androne-Nakanishi, whose original music blended seamlessly with Enescu’s work, adding a fresh dimension to the film’s soundtrack. Beyond historical records, I sought to capture the essence of Enescu—not only as a brilliant composer but as a man grappling with love, sacrifice, and artistic devotion. My goal was to bring his world to life in a way that resonates emotionally with audiences, ensuring that his story is remembered as vividly as his music.”
Toma, your film won Best Costume at the RED Movie Awards. What does that mean to you?
It is great, as costumes play a crucial role in storytelling, especially in a period drama where authenticity is paramount. Every fabric, every detail, and every silhouette had to reflect the era and the essence of George Enescu’s world. This award is a testament to the incredible work of the Venetian costume designer, Stefano Nicolao, of Iulia Gorneanu, who stylized traditional costumes, and of the entire team who meticulously crafted each piece to bring history to life. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about immersing the audience in Enescu’s time, making them feel the grandeur, the struggles, and the passion of his journey. To be recognized for this aspect of the film is deeply rewarding, as it validates the dedication we put into ensuring historical accuracy and emotional depth through costume design.
Your film focuses not only on Enescu’s exceptional musical talent but also on his complex love story with Princess Maruca. How did you balance the emotional intensity of this romance with the grandeur of his musical legacy?
That was one of the most delicate aspects of crafting Enescu, Skinned Alive. Their relationship was passionate, tumultuous, and deeply intertwined with his creative process. I wanted to ensure that the film did not merely present their romance as a subplot but as an essential force that shaped Enescu’s artistic journey. To achieve this, I focused on the interplay between music and emotion. Enescu’s compositions were not just background elements—they became an extension of his inner world, reflecting his joys, struggles, and devotion to Maruca. The film’s score, blending his original works with new compositions, was carefully designed to mirror the emotional highs and lows of their relationship. Visually, I sought to create a contrast between the intimacy of their love and the grandeur of Enescu’s musical achievements. The cinematography captures both the quiet, tender moments between them and the sweeping, majestic atmosphere of his performances and creative aspirations. Maruca was not just a muse; she was a complex, fully realized character whose presence influenced Enescu’s life in profound ways. Ultimately, the film is not just about a brilliant composer—it is about a man who loved deeply, suffered intensely, and poured his soul into his music. By weaving these elements together, I aimed to create a narrative that honors both his artistic brilliance and the emotional depth of his personal life.
You have a unique background, rooted in Aromanian culture, and have previously explored lesser-known historical narratives. How did your personal heritage influence your vision and storytelling approach for this biopic on Enescu?
My Aromanian heritage has always been a guiding force in my storytelling, shaping the way I approach history, identity, and artistic expression. Coming from a culture that has often been overlooked, I have developed a deep sensitivity to narratives that deserve to be heard—stories of resilience, passion, and the pursuit of greatness. In crafting Enescu, Skinned Alive, I drew upon this perspective to explore not only Enescu’s musical genius but also the emotional and cultural forces that shaped him. Enescu was deeply connected to his roots, yet his artistry transcended borders. His music carries echoes of Romanian folklore, blending tradition with innovation, much like the way I approach filmmaking —honoring the past while bringing it into a contemporary cinematic language. Additionally, my experience in exploring lesser-known historical narratives, such as in Between Pain and Amen, allowed me to approach Enescu’s story with a sense of responsibility. I wanted to ensure that his legacy was not just celebrated but deeply understood, portraying him as a man who struggled, loved, and sacrificed for his art. My heritage has taught me that history is not just a collection of facts—it is a living, breathing force that shapes identities and destinies. That belief guided every frame of this film.
Shooting a period drama comes with many challenges — from authentic locations to historical accuracy. What was the most difficult scene or moment to bring to life during the filming of Enescu, Skinned Alive?
One of the most challenging scenes to bring to life in Enescu, Skinned Alive was capturing the emotional and artistic turmoil that defined George Enescu’s later years. The film required an intricate balance between historical accuracy and cinematic storytelling, and certain moments demanded an extraordinary level of precision. The sequences depicting Enescu’s struggle with his unfinished opera were particularly difficult. These scenes had to convey not only his frustration as a composer but also the weight of his personal sacrifices. The challenge lay in visually translating his internal conflict—his longing for artistic perfection, his love for Maruca, and the pressures of his time. Another demanding aspect was recreating the grandeur of early 20th-century Romania. Finding authentic locations that reflected the elegance and cultural richness of Enescu’s world required extensive research and meticulous set design. Every detail, from costumes to lighting, had to transport the audience into his era without feeling artificial. Ultimately, the most difficult moments were those that required capturing Enescu’s essence—not just as a musical genius but as a man navigating love and the passage of time. It was a challenge, but one that made the film all the more rewarding.
What was the biggest challenge in this shooting?
One of the greatest challenges in filming Enescu, Skinned Alive was achieving historical authenticity while maintaining cinematic fluidity. Additionally, working with period locations presented logistical hurdles. Finding spaces that reflected the elegance and cultural richness of early 20th-century Romania required extensive research and careful adaptation. The goal was to make every frame feel immersive, ensuring that audiences could step into Enescu’s world and experience his journey firsthand. Despite these challenges, the process was deeply rewarding. The dedication of the cast and crew, combined with a shared passion for Enescu’s story, made overcoming these obstacles a fulfilling experience. There was also a fascinating challenge in capturing the essence of Enescu’s music on screen. The synchronization between the actor’s movements and the live performance of Enescu’s compositions had to be perfect. It was a delicate dance between sound and image, requiring immense precision. When we finally achieved the perfect take, it felt like we had truly honored Enescu’s spirit. Moments like these remind me why I make films—not just to tell stories, but to create experiences that resonate beyond the screen.
What is your next project?
My next project is still taking shape. I am particularly interested in themes of resilience, artistic legacy, and the unseen struggles behind great achievements. Cinema is a powerful medium for preserving memory and sparking reflection, and I look forward to bringing another compelling story to life.
