The story
“It's Lent term at Cambridge University, and Martha's relationship has just ended. Her best friend Helen is avoiding her, which isn't really fair, considering the extent of Paul's betrayal. Then again, Helen has been third-wheeling them for like a year, which isn't really fair either. A man named Hugh is having a torrid affair with a Swede called Sven. There is too much pesto in the fridge. Life is hard.
Lent is a new short film about love, friendship, sex and pesto sauce. Set during the most stressful term of the year, it follows a group of friends as they navigate changing relationships, growing up, and the abundance of pesto sauce in their lives. Inspired by Twin Peaks, films such as Lore, Eyes Wide Shut and the work of Virginia Woolf, it takes an unflinching look at the lives of young people.
The director
The film is written and directed by Niamh Sauter-Cooke, a veteran of the Cambridge short film scene (you can see her previous film, The Spread, here). Niamh is planning to go into the film industry, and this film will be a valuable part of her portfolio, as well as an important learning experience. Having survived two Lent terms at Cambridge, the film is a labour of love for her.
Our crew
Our team is highly organised and dedicated to the film. It is one of the most experienced Cambridge film sets to date : members of the crew have not only participated on previous film sets, but directed their own. Previous projects from our team include “The Spread”, “The Result of Rainy Days”, “Tachyon”, “Dinner Out”, "The Cloud", " A Righteous Man", "Vaudeville" and “Prelude”.
What we are asking for, and why.
We are excited to begin shooting this project, and are deep into the pre-production process, which will insure a smooth and successful shoot.
However, we need your help in funding the rest of our process. The film will look as professional as possible, and we will be hiring high end equipment. We estimate that we can bring the film together for the sum of £600. This amount will be spent on:
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Camera Equipment- We are hoping to hire a Black Magic camera for the purposes of the shoot, as well as specialised equipment such as ND filters that will help the outdoors scenes look fresh and beautiful.
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Grip Kit- Due to scenes that take place outdoors, we must light this film as safely as possible through use of high quality hired grip kit.
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Insurance- This will cover any equipment used on set and guarantees not only its security but also the safety of the cast and crew. This is an essential expenditure.
In all, we can estimate that about 80% of the £600 will go towards the equipment and insurance, and the remaining 20% will be spent on the design elements of the film. All donations will go towards the goal of finishing the project, even if we do not reach our entire goal.
The team
Director
Niamh Sauter Cooke is a 3rd year HSPS student at Sidney Sussex College. Her previous credits have included films such as The Spread. A ravenous eater of both pesto and peanut butter, this film has occupied her mind and heart for the last six months.
Producer
Sam Hobson is a 3rd year History student at Peterhouse College. He has directed numerous films, including The Cloud, A Righteous Man and the upcoming Vaudeville. He spends his spare time pining for the years of the Roman Empire.
What we are offering you
Supporting a short film can often seem like a long shot, which is why we have a track record of finishing every project we start. We value your contribution and your trust, and are committed to making the best film possible. We are offering a wide selection of perks for donations, and will keep you constantly updated through our Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr pages. We appreciate feedback, and hope to receive plenty from you!
We look forward to making Lent with your help.