There was no script, only an arc and a dilemma, divided into five short scenes (of which only four made the final cut). I knew where I wanted the story to go and the beginning and the end of every scene, but nothing much in between. The actors were not let in on this plan. Together, and in one-on-one sessions, we had developed the characters and their relationship to one another. There was a common backstory interwoven with secrets they keep from each other, to make room for insecurities and mistrust. Both of the characters went on the hike with the intention of saving their relationship – her by having sex, him by proposing.
We didn’t rehearse at all, but started shooting right away. As I gave the actors instructions separately, they couldn’t anticipate the other’s next move. They had a very good instinct and great chemistry, so they were able to react quickly and accordingly. In the editing process we were then able to combine this spontaneity with the precisely constructed and played out moments.
