Indiegogo is committed to accessibility. If you have difficulty using our site, please contact support@indiegogo.com for assistance or view our accessibility notice by clicking here

This campaign is closed

My Feral Heart - Feature Film

An independent young man with Down's syndrome stumbles upon a wild & life changing friendship.

You may also be interested in

Caret Left
Caret Right
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed
Closed

My Feral Heart - Feature Film

My Feral Heart - Feature Film

My Feral Heart - Feature Film

My Feral Heart - Feature Film

My Feral Heart - Feature Film

An independent young man with Down's syndrome stumbles upon a wild & life changing friendship.

An independent young man with Down's syndrome stumbles upon a wild & life changing friendship.

An independent young man with Down's syndrome stumbles upon a wild & life changing friendship.

An independent young man with Down's syndrome stumbles upon a wild & life changing friendship.

James Rumsey
James Rumsey
James Rumsey
James Rumsey
1 Campaign |
London, United Kingdom
$4,419 USD $4,419 USD 67 backers
34% of $12,654 Flexible Goal Flexible Goal

  


SYNOPSIS:

After the loss of his mother, Luke an independent young man with Down’s syndrome, is moved to a rural care home in Essex, where he struggles to settle. Despite the best efforts of Eve a warm, confident carer, it’s with Pete a troubled 'Hunt Saboteur' completing Community Payback, that Luke begins to find purpose. As time passes and Luke attempts to overcome his grief, he makes an unusual discovery, stumbling upon a wild and life changing friendship.


CREATIVE STATEMENT:

Written by Duncan Paveling MY FERAL HEART is an original screenplay, which blends the social realism often associated with UK micro-budget film making, with an element of fantasy and the innocence of youth. The film is to be directed by award-winning filmmaker Jane Gull. 

The film has been budgeted at £110,000, with a scheduled shoot date of November 2014. So far we have received pledges for £25,000 worth of share investment, almost half of the required funds to ‘shoot’ the film. 

Having had significant experience working with people of all ages with special needs both Jane and Duncan were keen to showcase the talent of these performers by creating the opportunity for an actor with Down’s syndrome to take the lead in a feature film. Whilst breaking down the perception of disability, highlighting the similarities and experiences we share regardless of needs. Alongside our lead we will be casting a strong supporting cast of professional actors and performers including Pixie Le Knot (GAME OF THRONES, THE DEVIL INSIDE) the UK’s leading contortionist.

Setting the project in the Essex region was a decision based on a number of factors. In recent years there has been some wonderful low budget films produced in the region/outskirts of London (SHIFTY, FISH TANK, KIDULTHOOD to name but a few) but all with a distinctly ‘urban’ feel. Our intention with MY FERAL HEART is to move the audience away from the familiarity of recent projects and show them a different side, a more rural one to that accustomed. In addition, both Jane, Duncan & James have all grown up in the area (Southend, Rochford and Stambridge) and wish to pull as much upon the local community as possible; another reason for us to be working with the wonderfully talented performers from The Mushroom Theatre Company (based in Rayleigh, Essex). Barrington Pheloung (Composer) also resides in the Essex region and has done for many years.

In terms of audience; we would cite films such as KES, WHISTLE DOWN THE WIND, RATCATCHER and LE HUITIEME JOUR (THE EIGHTH DAY) as strong influences to the project, with UNTOUCHABLE, INSIDE I’M DANCING and LILTING as more contemporary comparisons. We intend to promote the film within the festival market, in order to gain UK and Worldwide distribution across all formats (Cinema, DVD/Blu-Ray and TV/Online) with the 21st March 2015 as an intended date to premiere the film on what would be World Downs Syndrome Day.


PRODUCTION TEAM:

Duncan Paveling (Writer/Producer)

Having had an eclectic background in Film/Television, Duncan began as a Music Assistant to composer Barrington Pheloung, working closely with a number of industry professionals on award-winning projects such as HILARY & JACKIE (dir: Anand Tucker) and INSPECTOR MORSE. After a short period abroad, he returned to the UK and began freelancing on a number of corporate and television projects, working with an expansive client base; which included Tiger Aspect and the BBC. 

After a couple of years freelancing, Duncan joined Magnet Films Ltd, a new company established by the late Sir David Frost. During this time he was fortunate to build strong relationships with other professionals, whilst involved with the development of a number of projects; which included work with the UK Film Council. It was during his time at Magnet Films, Duncan began to learn his craft as a writer and has since developed and written a number of screenplays; which have naturally evolved into the creation of dull boy pictures (2013), with a vision to produce films in all genres, developing projects with an original voice and strong sense of storytelling.

WEBSITE: www.dullboypictures.co.uk

ADDITIONAL LINKS: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1099280/


Jane Gull (Director)

Having begun her career as an actress Jane developed her directorial skills in numerous theatrical productions. In 2005 she received support from the UK Film Council to write and direct her first film TOGETHER ALONE a relationship revisited in 2011 with her 5th short SUNNY BOY, a film selected as one of six by Candella UK for ‘Best of British Shorts’. The film has since been screened at over sixty film festivals and has picked up numerous awards; most recently Le Grand Prix du Jury at Entr’2 Marches in Cannes and screened at the Festival du Palais alongside the 2014 Palme D’or winner WINTER SLEEP. SUNNY BOY will also be screened as part of Channel 4’s ‘Shooting Gallery’  season (Monday 25th August), as well as a 6 month run in both France and Germany, courtesy of ARTE.

Her other films include SAINTS & WHORES, which was placed in the top three films by legendary filmmaker Larry Clarke at the Deristricted competition in association with Revolver Films.

"It was brave, personal & sincere.” (Larry Clarke on SAINTS & WHORES)

HITLER & HENRY VIII, was included in the official selection at Soho Rushes, London Short Film Festival, British Urban Film Festival and nominated for the Limelight and Van d’Or Awards; whilst in 2013 TWITCHER was nominated for best cinematography at the Underwire Film Festival, best drama and actor at the Van d’Or Awards and in the official selection at numerous festivals including Dresden, Munich and Las Vegas.

In 2012 Jane was selected and attended both The Berlinale Talent Campus and  Think-Shoot-Distribute at the 56th BFI London Film Festival and most recently completed a short film for Unchosen, an anti-trafficking charity, to be used as part of their nationwide awareness campaign. 

For the past six years Jane has been facilitating filmmaking and acting workshops for young people & vulnerable young adults and has also worked for BBC Blast, Creative Partnerships & Signals Media Arts and is the lead tutor at the BFI Film Academy in Colchester.

SHOWREEL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THuwna6vGuU

WEBSITE: www.janegull.com

SUNNY BOY (PRESS): http://www.channel4.com/info/press/news/the-shooting-gallery-returns-to-channel-4-with-stellar-cast

SUNNY BOY (CHANNEL 4OD): http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-shooting-gallery/4od


James Rumsey (Producer)    

With 20 years of experience in the film industry, James has developed his skills in a variety of roles from video publisher; producer, writer and director of short films; as well as a first assistant director on feature films, shorts, broadcast TV, and promotional videos. 

James has most recently taken on the role of script consultant for various writers and production companies (Inc. Matador Pictures and Kudos Television).  James’ work as a director/producer on his short film MILK MAN earned him 8 international awards including Best Director (Beverly Hills Shorts, US), Best Film (Skepto International Film Festival, Italy), and Audience Award (Filmstock, UK).  

WEBSITE: http://www.rumjamfilms.com

VIMEO: https://vimeo.com/rumjam

ADDITIONAL LINKS: www.imdb.com/name/nm2262447

                                       

Barrington Pheloung (Composer)

We are delighted that BAFTA nominated composer Barrington Pheloung will score MY FERAL HEART. Barrington, is a multi-talented composer, who's TV/Film credits include Anthony Minghella's BAFTA winning TRULY MADLY DEEPLY*, Anand Tucker's Academy Award nominated HILARY AND JACKIE** and the BAFTA winning series INSPECTOR MORSE***. Other acclaimed work by Barrington includes: AND WHEN DID YOU LAST SEE YOUR FATHER, THE RED RIDING TRILOGY - 1983, LEWIS and ENDEAVOUR. 

*Best Original Screenplay - Anthony Minghella **Best Actress in a leading role - Emily Watson and Best Actress in a Supporting roles - Rachel Griffiths ***Best Drama Series - 1991-3

WEBSITE: www.pheloung.co.uk


Susanne Salavati (Director of Photography)

Susanne Salvati (nee Willett) has shot acclaimed and award winning fiction and documentary films worldwide. She is focused on working on projects that both challenge her and that examine the society we live in.

Short fiction film ‘Twitcher’, directed by Jane Gull, earned Susanne a Special Mention in the Best Cinematographer category at this years London Underwire Film Festival. Indian documentary ‘Unravel’ has won multiple awards including Best Cinematog- raphy at WIFF LA. Susanne has also shot successful promo and commercial cam- paigns for companies such as Nokia, British Airways and Virgin.

WEBSITE: www.susannesalavati.com

Steven M. Smith (Associate Producer)

Steven has a unique connection to the production as having experience of working with Adults with Down's syndrome from a young age. He believes in the project that Duncan, James and Jane are putting together and comes on board as Associate Producer with over 20 years experience in the film, and distribution field, his wealth of knowledge will be a great asset to the production.

Steven began his movie career at 16 working on films such as Four Weddings and A Funeral, and Television like Lovejoy. He produced his first feature film Time of Her Life, which screened at Cannes Film Festival and went on to produce features: Dance Star, Haunted and Tales of the Supernatural.  


CAST:

Steven Brandon (‘Luke’): 

During the search for our lead, we found ourself gifted with someone unique and talented, in Steven. Steven was discovered through a series of workshops undertaken by our director Jane Gull at The Mushroom Theatre Company, where he has been a long-standing performer. 

Steven has a wonderful blend of humour and sensitivity, alongside an undeniable presence. Steven excels in improvisation, something that will undoubtably enhance his performance, bringing something quite special to the role of Luke.

WEBSITE: www.mushroomtheatre.co.uk


Will Rastall (Cast - ‘Pete’):

With his appearances in GAME OF THRONES and HOLLYOAKS Will has begun to build a fine balance between Theatre, TV and Film.  

Will has recently completed an extremely successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe with MOCK TUDOR, whilst the award-winning DRIFTWOOD, was shown alongside SUNNY BOY as part of Channel 4’s recent ‘Shooting Gallery’ season. 

Will possesses a wonderful range, that will bring all the necessary charm, complexity and sensitivity needed for the role of Pete.

WEBSITE: www.imdb.com/name/nm4105029/ 


Shana Swash (Cast - ‘Eve’): 

Known for her long-running appearance as Demi Miller in the flagship BBC soap EASTENDERS Shana has developed a style that is not only engaging, but incredibly natural. 

Shana’s energy and warmth encapsulates everything we’d hoped for in the casting of Eve, whilst her experience and talent will be invaluable on the production of MY FERAL HEART. 

WEBSITE: www.markjermin.com


Pixie Le Knot (‘The Girl’)

With credits such as GAME OF THRONES and THE DEVIL INSIDE, Pixie Le Knot has established herself as one of the most flexible contortionists in the UK. Pixie is currently performing contortion and acrobatic acts at venues all over the world and has appeared in many commercials, virals, music videos and publicity stunts. We are delighted to have Pixie attached to the project, with her physicality, she will undoubtably bring something unusual and unique to the role and the film.

WEBSITE: www.pixieleknot.co.uk


The Mushroom Theatre Company ('Guests & Carers')

We are also pleased to have the involvement of The Mushroom Theatre Company a hugely talented group of performers. The Mushroom Theatre Company is an Essex based group established in 2004 by Penni Bubb; with the intention to promote the benefits of the performing arts, alongside a fully inclusive Theatre Company for the community. Within this group, we have also found our lead actor for the role of Luke. Within all of their classes and performances the company integrate able-bodied performers with those who have special needs, allowing each other to break down the barriers sometimes encountered with disability. The Company are also fortunate to have musical theatre actor Lee Mead as one of their Patrons.

WEBSITE: www.mushroomtheatre.co.uk


PRODUCTION INFORMATION:

Company

‘My Feral Heart Ltd’ was established by Jane Gull, James Rumsey and Duncan Paveling, for the sole purpose of producing the feature film MY FERAL HEART.

Sales & Marketing

Our aims for the Sales, Distribution and Marketing of MY FERAL HEART are:

  World/UK Premiere on 21st March 2015 (World Downs Syndrome day)

  Direct approach to existing & interested contacts (Entr’2 Marches International Film Festival - Cannes/France, Channel 4 Television - UK & TV ARTE - Germany/France)

  Industry Screenings in which sales agents, distributors and broadcasters are invited guests

  To gain to the services of an appropriate Sales Agent to represent the project

  To gain a UK distribution deal on the completion of the film, across all formats (Cinema, DVD/Blu-Ray and TV/Online)

  To target the European festival market (Cannes, Venice, Berlin) throughout 2015, with a view to gain distribution in those territories (and Worldwide), again across all formats (Cinema, DVD/Blu-Ray and TV/Online)

  A select few ‘Event’ screenings

  Soundtrack album featuring the music of Barrington Pheloung

  Production photographs/stills and a producers diary

  A “Making Of” documentary

  Use of Social Media (Newspaper, Twitter, Facebook)

The distributors themselves will utilise their own marketing strategies, which can effect the recoupment of funds in net terms for our company. We are aware of the possible challenges and with the experience of James Rumsey (previous owner of AKTIV Film & Video - Video Publishing) we are confident of negotiating favourable deals in this area. 

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW:

Total budget: £110,000

Total budget in place: £50,000 (£25,000 share investment pledges & £25,000 producers fees deferrals). 

CROWD-FUNDING: is just a small part of our financing plan, with investment in shares of My Feral Heart Limited the main financing stream. Crowdfunding gives us the opportunity to invite many rather than a few to be involved a film, and to be a part of making MY FERAL HEART a reality.

PLEASE NOTE: It is common practice to acquire financing to “get the film shot” then use the footage to gain further investment to complete the post-production on a film. Organisations such as the BFI offer completion funding and have prioritised funds for films that promote diversity, an initiative that MY FERAL HEART falls very much within the remit of.

WHAT WE NEED FUNDING FOR:

Wages: all crew are being paid.

Locations: permits, agreements, and fees

Equipment rental: Camera & lighting kit (rented)
Sound recording kit (rented)
Vehicle rental: Lighting & Art Department Vans (rented)

Art Dept: Costume and prop rental (part rented / purchased)

Insurance: Public liability (temporary - production only)
Equipment cover (temporary - production only)
Errors & Omissions (on release)

Post-Production: Off/Online Picture Edit, Sound Design, foley, ADR & final mix

Other Services:

Graphic Design
Lawyers
Accountants
Printers

OTHER WAYS YOU CAN HELP:

Some people just can't contribute, but that doesn't mean they can't help:

  • Ask folks to get the word out and make some noise about your campaign.

  • Remind them to use the Indiegogo share tools!

And that's all there is to it.

© My Feral Heart Ltd


Looking for more information? Check the project FAQ
Need more information
Let us know if you think this campaign contains prohibited content.

Choose your Perk

featured

Meet Barrington Pheloung

Currency Conversion $1,265 USD
£1,000 GBP
Experience a recording session with award winning composer Barrington Pheloung. (project, date & venue TBC) + 'Thanks' credit reward
Estimated Shipping
March 2015
0 out of 2 of claimed

Media Shout Out! To 25k+

Currency Conversion $13 USD
£10 GBP
A very big 'Thank You' message sent via social media to 25K+ followers.
Estimated Shipping
October 2014
8 out of 40 of claimed

Thanks Credit in Film

Currency Conversion $32 USD
£25 GBP
'Thanks' credit on the film and on IMDB + A very big 'Thank You' message via social media sharing to 25k+ followers.
Estimated Shipping
October 2014
Only 1 left

MY FERAL HEART Digital Pack

Currency Conversion $63 USD
£50 GBP
Via digital download: Official Poster Art, Production Stills, and 'Making of MY FERAL HEART' behind the scenes documentary + 'Thanks' Credit Reward.
Estimated Shipping
September 2015
6 out of 30 of claimed

Associate Producer

Currency Conversion $127 USD
£100 GBP
An 'Associate Producer' credit, placed in end credits and on IMDB page + Email updates on production
1 out of 10 of claimed

Lunch With The Film Makers

Currency Conversion $190 USD
£150 GBP
Enjoy lunch with the Cast and Crew during an 'On Set' visit + 'Thanks' credit reward
Estimated Shipping
November 2014
1 out of 4 of claimed

UK Premiere Screening

Currency Conversion $253 USD
£200 GBP
Come to The UK Premiere Screening . Walk the RED CARPET. + Email updates on production + 'Thanks' Credit Reward
Estimated Shipping
March 2015
2 out of 5 of claimed

Executive Producer Credit

Currency Conversion $3,163 USD
£2,500 GBP
Executive Producer Credit in the opening title sequence, on official artwork and IMDB. + Invite to UK Premiere, + MY FERAL HEART Digital Pack, Set Visit & Email Updates on production.
Estimated Shipping
October 2014
0 out of 4 of claimed
sold out

Associate Producer Credit

Currency Conversion $127 USD
£100 GBP
Estimated Shipping
October 2014
10 out of 10 of claimed
sold out

Associate Producer Credit

Currency Conversion $127 USD
£100 GBP
Estimated Shipping
November 2014
5 out of 5 of claimed
Tags for this project

You may also be interested in

Up Caret