Editor’s Note: Welcome to “Reel Women,” our annual tribute to dynamic women in creative industries. For the month of March, let us introduce you to some very special women like actress, producer and artist, Lilly Rikhter.
Born in Grozny, Chechnya, Lilly’s journey encompasses a spectrum of talents and accomplishments. Her early experiences in classical music and psychology laid the foundation for her empathetic understanding of human nature, a quality that shines through in her captivating performances as an actress.
Her foray into the entertainment industry began in the Canary Islands, Spain, where she established Lilly Rikhter Production SL and produced two reality TV pilots, Fat Money and El Peleador, showcasing her ingenuity and creativity as a producer.
Lilly’s acting career took flight with her debut in the award-winning film El Viaje de La Vida, signaling her successful entry into the world of acting. Relocating to Belgium in 2021, she penned her inaugural script and collaborated on the poignant short film Breathe with Angel Pro Film and Neropuro.
Her achievements extend far beyond the realm of entertainment. As a torchbearer at the Sochi 2014 Olympics, she has demonstrated her prowess in powerlifting and Thai boxing competitions, garnering recognition for her contributions to fitness psychology. Her accolades include championships in IFBB PRO fitness bikini and Spanish Wellness competitions, as well as prestigious titles like Carnival Queen Maspalomas Moon 2019 and Mrs. Sport Europe 2019.
Let’s meet Lillly!
What is your origin story?
My journey began in the war-torn streets of Grozny, Chechnya. Fleeing conflict with my mother, we settled in southern Russia, a backdrop to a childhood bursting with creativity and sport. From plucking the Bandura’s strings to spiking a volleyball, my days were a mosaic of music, art, and athletics.
The pursuit of expression led me to study cello at a music college, but life’s symphony had more in store. To support my education, I ventured into psychology via distance learning, while my passion for fitness took me to Moscow’s international bodybuilding stages, earning me honors and a new career as a trainer and psychologist.
A daring loan put me behind the wheel, driving towards a new chapter in Novorossiysk, where I made my mark as both a fitness center director and a decorated athlete in Thai boxing and powerlifting. Moscow called next, offering a stint as a television consultant and the honor of bearing the Olympic torch.
Hong Kong came afterward, but it was in the Canary Islands, Spain, a paradise-like location, where I found my place. I launched a non-profit aimed to motivate Canarian residents to embrace a healthy lifestyle. This non-profit non only celebrated sports but also kindled my love for storytelling and acting, setting the stage for a career that transcends boundaries and connects cultures.
How did you get into movie industry?
From the echoes of war-torn Chechnya to the serene shores of the Canary Islands, my life has been a screenplay in the making. As a child, amidst the chaos of conflict and the ordinary life of a provincial family, I harbored a luminous dream: to shine on the silver screen.
This dream guided me through a remarkable transformation from a social psychologist and decorated athlete—champion in bodybuilding, powerlifting, and Thai boxing—to a visionary TV show producer and film producer.
Ten years ago, I took a leap of faith, immigrating to the Canary Islands, where I founded Lilly Rikhter Production SL. Here, I carved a niche producing sports TV shows and pioneering online games, until the pandemic paused the world—and with it, my projects. Faced with a crossroads, I chose to chase my lifelong dream with renewed vigor.
Education became my weapon; the New York Film Academy, the Meisner Studio in Belgium, and Scenocity Studio in Brussels, my battlegrounds.
I was sculpting my raw passion into a refined art of acting. My debut in El Viaje de la Vida, under Ivan Drudi’s direction, marked my entry into the film industry, earning international acclaim. Buoyed by this success, I ventured into directing, steering my own narratives.
This isn’t just a career shift; it’s a testament to the power of dreams, the art of reinvention, and the endless pursuit of passion.
Who were your mentors?
My close friend and creative partner Ivan Drudi has had an incredible influence on my work. We studied together, worked on our first major projects together, and motivated each other.
Similarly, like Ivan, I genuinely value the opinion of my Belgian acting mentor, Kevin Van Doorslaer. He is not only a wonderful actor but also an exceptionally talented professor. He inspired me to shoot my second film, On Time.
What do you consider your biggest achievement to date?
Reflecting on what I consider my crowning achievement to date, it’s impossible not to think immediately of my family. They are the very heart of my universe—our connection is a tapestry woven from threads of love, understanding, and unwavering support.
My husband, in particular, has been my rock. His encouragement is at the cornerstone for some of the most pivotal decisions in my life. Without him, I wouldn’t have had the courage to step behind the camera and direct, to embrace the vulnerability of acting, or to balance the demands of motherhood and marriage with grace.
Parallel to the joy of family, standing as a torchbearer in the Olympic Games marks another peak in my journey. It wasn’t just about carrying the flame; it was a symbol of my dedication to sports and health, recognized on a global stage. This moment was a testament to my belief in inspiring others to embrace a lifestyle of wellness and vitality. It bridged my passion for athleticism with my commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Both of these achievements, though vastly different, are pillars that uphold the person I’ve become. They remind me that true success is not just about personal accolades but about the lives we touch and the legacy we build with the ones we love.
What drives you to create?
Creating isn’t just something I do; it’s who I am.
There’s this thirst within me to craft stories, to bring characters to life, to touch the very soul of art itself. It’s not about external pressures or expectations, it’s a calling that comes from deep within.
Sure, there are days when I’m bogged down by exhaustion or when life’s little hiccups, like a cold or a bad day, seem to stand in my way. But, believe it or not, it’s precisely in those moments of vulnerability that some of the most profound creative sparks fly.
Even in weariness, there’s a story unfolding, a lesson to be learned, an emotion to be captured and shared. My drive to create is my compass, guiding me through life’s storms and sunny days alike. It’s an exploration, a journey inward and outward, constantly discovering new facets of human experience to share with the world. Each film plot I craft, every character I dive into, is a step on this endless journey of creation. It’s not just about making art; it’s about living fully.
Who are you dying to work with?
Among directors, I would mention Quentin Tarantino. His approach to filmmaking, talent in working with actors, and passion are unparalleled. As for actors, it would be Christoph Waltz and Leonardo DiCaprio, living legends and geniuses of the craft.
I don’t have idols, but if one day this dream combo were to happen and I were lucky enough to be on set with these artists, I would be one of the happiest people in the world.
Award you crave, but haven’t won
Due to my limited experience in the film industry, I’ve received awards primarily for my contributions to the promotion of international cinema. However, as an actress, my goal is to receive an award for the best acting performance at one of the prestigious global awards ceremonies, such as the Cannes Film Festival or The Academy Awards.
Female-directed franchise films such as Star Wars or MCU constantly get called “woke” by Internet trolls. Why?
Well, it’s interesting to see female-directed films, especially in big franchises like Star Wars or MCU, sometimes labeled as ‘woke’ by certain corners of the internet.
I think, fundamentally, it’s a reflection of change within the industry and society. Change can be challenging for some people; it pushes us out of our comfort zones, and the immediate reaction for some is to push back with labels or criticism.
But here’s the thing: cinema, at its core, is about storytelling, innovation, and reflecting the diverse world we live in. Having more women in directorial roles enriches our storytelling palette. It brings new perspectives, experiences, and voices to the forefront, which is crucial for the growth and relevance of our industry.
So, when these films get called ‘woke,’ it’s perhaps a sign that they’re doing something right – challenging norms, sparking conversations, and making us think. It’s important to focus on the bigger picture: inclusivity and diversity in storytelling are not just trends; they’re pathways to a more empathetic, understanding, and connected world.
Criticism is part of the creative process, and everyone has a right to their opinion. However, the goal should always be to encourage dialogue and understanding, rather than division. As creators and viewers, we have the power to support films that reflect a wide range of experiences and viewpoints, contributing to a more inclusive industry and society.
Coffee, Lunch or Happy Hour
Picking just one female shero for coffee, lunch, or happy hour is like trying to choose a favorite star in the sky—each one shines uniquely bright. The world is brimming with remarkable women whose talents, strength, and contributions light up our lives daily. It’s thrilling to see these women power grow stronger and more visible with every passing day!
That said, if I had to choose one incredible woman to share a meal with, it would be the amazing Jennifer Aniston.
Can you imagine sitting down to lunch with her? We have so much in common—from our routines to our resilience. I admire her not just for her iconic roles on screen but for her grace, humor, and strong will off-screen. She’s crafted a career with both depth and breadth, navigating the challenges of our industry with poise and determination.
REELated: Meet Other REEL WOMEN
It’s an election year, what is keeping you up at night?
Election years always bring a mix of anticipation and reflection, don’t they? What keeps me up at night, honestly, is thinking about how the outcomes can shape our future—especially in terms of the arts, environmental policies, and social justice. It’s about how these decisions will impact not just our industry but the world at large.
I believe in the power of storytelling to inspire change, to build bridges. So, I find myself pondering how we, as part of the creative community, can contribute to a narrative that encourages inclusivity, empathy, and understanding, regardless of the political climate.
It’s also about the kind of world we’re leaving for the next generation. I think a lot about the environment, education, and equality. These issues are close to my heart, and I hope that, through our work and voices, we can play a part in steering the conversation towards positive, meaningful action.
So, while the election itself is certainly significant, it’s the broader implications—how we respond and contribute to the discourse, how we act on the outcomes—that really keep me up at night, in a good way. It’s a reminder of our responsibility, not just as artists but as global citizens, to advocate for a better world.
Favorite movie and TV show of 2023.
When it comes to TV, Black Mirror hasme completely hooked. It’s like a thrilling glimpse into what our future could hold, with all its twists and turns.
As for movies, Jeanne du Barry with Johnny Depp was an absolute visual feast this year. And, not to toot my own horn, but my short film On Time holds a special place in my heart—it’s a labor of love that I’m incredibly proud of.
Band or singer you go feral for
If I had to jump ship and join a band or perform with a singer, it would be a dream to rock out with the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Their energy is just infectious! And on the electronic side, jamming with Blaze would be an electrifying experience. For solo artists, Pharrell Williams tops my list. His vibe is just irresistibly positive, and who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?
14. What’s your theme song for 2024?
Choosing a theme song for 2024, Good as Hell by Lizzo is my anthem. It’s all about feeling empowered, unstoppable, and just plain fabulous. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to strut down the street like it’s your personal runway. And just like Sunday Best by Surfaces uplifted me in the past, Lizzo’s beats are set to be my soundtrack for a year of confidence and joy.”
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