Award-winning radio and TV writer Tony Pitts has written a moving, poetic short film in the vein of The Red Balloon (1956), entitled The Queen of Brighton Pier. The film stars Tony and BBC1 Silk star Maxine Peake. It tells the story of Dave Hook-a-Duck, a tattooed bruiser who spends his days drinking and holding back the tears as he bestrides his gaudy kingdom, a muscle-bound monarch. Until one day, he is dethroned by a fragile beauty, a Queen amongst the chips and anger; she's here to avenge a life ruined, she's here to right the wrongs, she's here for closure and coronation.

My name is Manon Ardisson and I’m a young producer used to making short films on a budget. I instantly fell in love with the script, simply because it is at once so poetic and so real, a compelling combination for a three-minutes story. And of course, with actors of the standing of Tony and Maxine attached to the project, I know the story will come to life at its best. I’ve also teamed up with producer John Phillips, who’s got an impressive record of short film productions (among others: Blind Eye 2009 for the UK Film Council Digital Shorts scheme; In T’Vic 2012 for Shoebox Productions) and who has just finished working as script editor on the latest season of Dr Who.

We’ve got a great script, a fantastic cast, and an amazing crew with Phoebe Arnstein as Director of Photography. As you’ve seen from our filmed moodboard, we also have one of the most beautiful locations in England: Brighton Pier. Now we just need the funding to make it happen! Even with the cast and crew working for free, we’re going to need £8,000, which is mostly for the location fee (Brighton Pier alone is £2500 per day!), transporting the equipment, and buying consumables. If you want a detailed budget, just email me at manon@catandbearpictures.com 

It’d be great to have you on board! Every contribution will help to make the project happen. And if we don't get enough, then you'll get your money back. But I got short format videos in festivals and events before (Rushes 2011; Rotorelief 2012; London Short Film Festival 2013), and I know this project has the potential to go far. So, get on board and let's make this film!

Also, if you would like to know more about our team, here are a few links:

Tony Pitts, writer / lead actor:  http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0686029/

Maxine Peake, lead actress:  http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0668845/

Manon Ardisson, producer:  www.catandbearpictures.com

Phoebe Arnstein, director of photography: http://www.phoebearnstein.com/

Thank you!

Manon