What is "An Old Friend"?
An Old Friend is a short film passion project shooting in Nottingham, UK. The film takes place during one evening in the lives of Sean and Lotte, a young couple whose relationship is tested when Sean, struggling with recent events, impulsively brings home a stray cat which he claims to recognise. As Lotte attempts to carefully navigate this unexpected situation, the film explores the bonds of love being strained during a difficult time and how this event simultaneously brings these people together and tears them apart.
This story is one we aim to handle with sensitivity and care as the true nature of the situation is gradually revealed, hopefully leading to a deep emotional impact.
What We Need & What You Get
Funds raised through this campaign will be allocated to:
- Cast
- Transportation
- Catering
- Costume
- Props
- Set Decorating
- Music Recording
- Post-Production
- Film Festival Submissions
As a donor, you will receive access to exclusive perks including a special thanks in the credits, an early download copy of the film and a physical DVD/Blu-ray copy of the film complete with bonus features.
Meet The Team
Writer/Director - James Merrell
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James is a writer/director based in Nottingham. He has been making short films for four years, ranging from comedy to horror, 6 minutes to 40 minutes. His films focus on character-based narratives that explore human connections and complex emotions while posing questions to the audience. Inspired by films from the 70s and 80s, James attempts to replicate vintage styles through his work to create vibrant and striking images. His most recent short film, "Sugar," received praise for its visuals, emotional script and powerful lead performance.
James has worked as a writer on Kate Lamasz's short film "I'm Still Here" and Michael Lawson's upcoming short film "Purée." He has also directed the short documentary "Three Five Seven Three," following Sam Hendricks as he prepared to compete in the London Triathlon. During his gap year, James was asked to help advise A-Level students in completing their own short films before coming to Nottingham, where he now studies Filmmaking at NTU.
Recently, James was featured as FromTheInside Studios' "Creator of the Week," where he was interviewed about his film career so far on the In Your Studio Podcast.
James' Films: https://www.youtube.com/@jamesmerrellfilms
Producer - Kate Lamasz
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Kate is a director/producer based in Nottingham, currently studying Filmmaking at NTU. She has previously produced the short documentary "Girls in Gaelic" and directed the short film "I'm Still Here," which was screened at the Savoy Cinema and praised for its emotional impact and narrative structure. She brings an infectious positive energy to set, always keeping morale high and ensuring everyone is comfortable and keeping the production running smoothly.
I'm Still Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNJXvRryqUw
Assistant Director - Michael Lawson
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Michael is primarily a writer/director based in Nottingham, currently studying Filmmaking at NTU. He has previously worked on Kate Lamasz's "I'm Still Here" as a writer, colourist and production assistant, ensuring every department had what they needed and gathering any last minute supplies. He has also worked as a camera operator on the short documentary "Girls in Gaelic," expanding his technical knowledge and making him an all-rounder on set. As well as working on "An Old Friend," Michael is also currently preparing to shoot his short film directorial debut, "Purée." Driven by his love for realism, Michael will be a great help in achieving a grounded feel for both films.
More about Purée: https://www.gofundme.com/f/puree-the-movie
Editor - Brandon French
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Brandon is a north-east based editor with 6+ years of experience in various software packages, including industry standard software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, AVID Media Composer and Davinci Resolve. His experience includes editing short form narrative, documentary, concert and vlog style content. On set, Brandon takes on the role of sound recordist. Using his extensive knowledge of sound equipment, he ensures the final films have crisp, clear audio.
Brandon and James have developed a close working relationship over the course of four short films together spanning three years. Through their work together, they have developed a comfortable workflow and a mutual understanding of each other's creative processes. Brandon has also helped in hosting a private screening for the premiere of "Intoxication" and has made it possible for production of physical copies of the films.
Brandon's Portfolio: https://frenbs.wixsite.com/brandon-french---e-1
Risks & Challenges
As we approach the end of our university experiences, we hope this film can be used to show the full range of our capabilities and get our names out into the world. We feel that our previous filmmaking experiences have prepared us for this task, but in order to reach the quality we are aiming to achieve no expense can be spared. The goal for this film is to reach a technical quality worthy of the big screen so that we can submit it to major film festivals and get this story in front of people.
The film will be shot over the course of 6 days, giving us roughly 3 pages to shoot per day. This will give us plenty of time to ensure that everything is done to the highest standard and the process isn't rushed.
This film is not being made for profit, purely for the love of the craft from everyone involved. This is a passion project for the crew and everyone cares about delivering the best possible final product.
Other Ways You Can Help
Thank you for reading about our film! If you are unable to donate or would like to help further, please consider sharing this campaign and keep an eye out for future updates!
