Posted by Join host Olivia Lyle (@olivialyle1) for an exclusive interview with French director Roméo Abolin, recorded by Kyle Reed (@thekylereed) at the 7th Annual Independent Shorts Awards at Regal LA Live, Los Angeles. His film Little Bunny Poop charmed audiences with its tender storytelling and went on to win Best Children Short at this year’s edition.
At only 19 years old, Roméo made the trip from France to Los Angeles to present his work, reflecting on his path through film school, the inspiration behind his unique title, and how family support shaped his filmmaking journey.
The screening at Independent Shorts Awards marked the World premiere of Little Bunny Poop, giving audiences their first opportunity to experience the film on the big screen.
Little Bunny Poop — Story and Vision
Directed by Roméo Abolin, Little Bunny Poop is a 17-minute coming-of-age short that follows two children during an unforgettable summer in Provence.
Their playful companionship gradually transforms into something deeper, capturing the innocence, fragility, and wonder of first feelings.
The whimsical title comes from a childhood expression: a little girl teasingly refers to a beauty spot as “a little bunny poop.” For the young director, the phrase captured both innocence and playfulness, making it a perfect fit for the film’s tone.
The film reflects Abolin’s personal ties to Provence, where he spent much of his childhood. The landscape — lavender fields, hills, and warm light — becomes an essential character in the story, shaping the atmosphere as much as the children’s experiences. This intimate backdrop highlights the fleeting, transformative nature of growing up.
Family Collaboration & Artisanal Filmmaking
Though modest in budget, the film was rich in heart. Roméo shared how the production became a family collaboration: his younger brother played one of the roles, his mother supported performances on set, and the entire process felt, in his words, “very artisanal.” This hands-on, close-knit approach gave the film its authenticity and warmth, proving that powerful cinema doesn’t always require large crews or resources.
Film School, Inspiration & What’s Next
Having just graduated from film school in Cannes, Roméo reflected on what the experience gave him. He credited the program for teaching him technical fundamentals but emphasized that true artistic growth comes from travel, meeting people, and exchanging ideas. “Inspiration comes more from people and places than from classrooms,” he explained, highlighting how his time in Los Angeles has already broadened his perspective.
Alongside Roméo in the interview was his manager, Matthieu Le Cam, based in Los Angeles, who expressed pride and optimism for the young director: “He’s only 19 — there’s such a big future ahead. Big features are coming for him.”
Indeed, Roméo revealed that he hopes to expand Little Bunny Poop into a feature-length film while also developing other projects rooted in the traditions and landscapes of France. His upcoming stories, he noted, will continue to explore cultural encounters and the beauty of human connection.
Enjoy the interview below, along with the trailer for Little Bunny Poop, for a brief glimpse into the film.
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