Animalps co-founder Fabrice Beau

This month, Turin-based French animation director Fabrice Beau (co-founder of Annecy-based Animalps Productions) offers us a glimpse at his world as he works on his eagerly anticipated new feature The Khmer Smile. The autobiographical pic centers on a young Frenchman of Cambodian background who embarks on a journey to discover his Khmer roots. thekhmersmile-themovie.com.

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7:45 a.m. I enjoy listening to my moka pot (Italian coffee maker) as it makes its familiar gurgling noises in the morning.

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9 a.m. After escorting my children to preschool, I drink my second cup of coffee as I watch people outside my window walk, talk, laugh and drink their morning coffee.

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10 a.m. I drink my third cup of coffee with famous Italian animation veteran Laura Fiori as we discuss life and work. Together, we develop some exciting projects!

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11 a.m. It’s time to check some scenes from my movie, which is in production in France and Cambodia, while answering my phone at the same time.

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1 p.m. After lunch, my cat Robinson enjoys his cup of coffee, as he watches his friends chase mice and tease dogs on the streets.

3 p.m. I have a video chat with Jeanne Basset, the line producer and co-producer of the movie. Cheers!

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5 p.m. My two sons rush back to me. It’s time to bring them home from school.

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7 p.m. I have to leave the old man in the movie. It’s time for dinner and my stomach is grumbling! 10 p.m. The kids are in bed and the parents can relax. We enjoy some great jazz music, “Take Five” by the Dave Brubeck Quartet!