In the shadow of the cypress, interview with Walter Nicoletti, distributor of the Oscar-winning short film

Check out the interview with Walter Nicoletti, distributor of the Oscar-winning short film Shadow of the Cypress.

In the Shadow of the Cypress is the 2025 Academy Award-winning animated short film. The plot revolves around a former captain suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder who lives a hard and secluded life: he lives in a house by the sea with his daughter, and when a whale beached near their home, their lives change. Directed by Hossein Molayemi and Shirin Sohani, the film is distributed by Walter Nicoletti's Voce Spettacolo.

How did you choose the short film In the Shadow of the Cypress for distribution?

I always look for films that have both artistic and commercial potential, as well as a strong emotional impact. In the Shadow of the Cypress stood out because of its unique blend of realism and fantasy, its exceptional animation, and its deep, resonant storytelling. When I first saw it, I immediately recognized its potential to connect with audiences and perform well to the Oscars.

The story is both realistic and fantastical. What genre of story do you like best?

I enjoy stories that blur the line between reality and fantasy, especially those that use imaginative elements to explore deep human emotions. Whether it’s animation, drama, or even sci-fi, I’m drawn to narratives that challenge perspectives and leave a lasting impression.

What was the distribution process like to be eligible for the Oscars?

The road to the Oscars is highly competitive, and simply qualifying is not enough—you need a well-planned strategy to ensure the film gains visibility. A strong Oscar campaign requires a mix of festival strategy, industry networking, and targeted promotion. Marketing materials, social media presence, and word-of-mouth all played a role in keeping the film on the radar. In the Oscar race, timing is everything.

How did you feel when it was announced that the short film you distributed was an Oscar winner?

It was an incredible moment. Seeing all the hard work—from the filmmakers, the marketing team, and myself—pay off on such a grand stage was deeply rewarding. It reinforced my belief in the power of great storytelling and strategic distribution. The Oscars can truly change a film’s trajectory, and being part of that success was an unforgettable experience.

You are also a director. Do you have any directing projects in the future?

Yes, I do! While distribution keeps me very busy, I’m always developing new ideas and looking for the right moment to return to directing. I have a new concepts in the works, and I hope to bring one of them to life soon. Storytelling is my passion, whether through distribution or directing.