2025 Annual Awards Interviews: Timothy De Leon & Nolan Tondreau, Lead Actor and Director of “The Americano”

Join host Olivia Lyle (@olivialyle1) for an exclusive interview with lead actor Timothy De Leon and director Nolan Tondreau, the creative minds behind The Americano, winner of Best Film Noir Short of 2025. Recorded by Kyle Reed (@thekylereed) during its world premiere at the IndieX Film Fest 2025 Annual Awards, held at Regal LA Live in Los Angeles, the interview dives into the stylish minimalism and sharp tone of this unexpected noir gem.

Set against a mafia-tinged backdrop, The Americano follows a young waiter—portrayed by Xander Simmons— who unknowingly steps into a lesson he won’t forget. The film is a brief but impactful exploration of intention, restraint, and legacy—cleverly unraveling the origins of the Americano coffee beverage.

Drawing inspiration from the flavor palette of Better Call Saul and Taxi Driver, Tondreau’s direction favors quiet tension over spectacle, while De Leon’s controlled, compelling performance grounds the short in an eerie sense of realism.

Watch the interview and teaser below for a glimpse into this bold and stylistic noir.