Steering Away from Reality

Some time ago I mentioned the need for a little of 'Joey' in my filmmaking. Thanks to a wonderful group of people, I succeeded in shooting an adaptation of Cinderella at the end of June on a Lavender Farm in Somerset - www.somersetlavender.com. I am looking forward to premiering this directorial debut in November.

Just like its content, the film shoot itself ran like magic. With the kind support of Judith and Frances Green at the farm and their neighbours, we were able to capture some truly stunning footage. This could not have been achieved without a thoroughly dedicated and fun-loving cast and crew. This has been a really personal project for me. Cinderella happens to be the very first film I went to see at the cinema at the young age of 4.

A special thanks is owed to my parents - Geoff and Jackie Beard. Their ongoing support for my filmmaking endeavours is unwavering and this film could not have been made without them. Although relatively low budget, the budget still entailed grip hire, costume and catering.

So...with Cinders about to hit the silver screen, what comes next in the Overlook Fairytales series? In just over a month, I am shooting the second of the series 'Seeing Red', adapted from Little Red Riding Hood and starring Madeleine Burman, Anthony O'Callaghan and Craig Malpass. In a disneyesque way I have decided to keep Craig as a constant in my directorial experiments. The Disneyism for me stemming from the identical qualities of Walt's Prince Charming characters in contrast to his differing Princesses. Craig's ability to hold such presence on camera along with his kind patience and support on set are an asset to hold on to with both hands.

As with Cinders, I am taking a very seasonal approach to the look of Red. Where Cinders captured the beauty of summer evenings and most importantly the sea of purple Lavender, Red will focus on autumn colours - vibrant reds and oranges along with dark and haunting forests. Retaining its magic and treats for the eyes, Red will be in some ways much darker than Cinders. This is an aspect I look forward to exploring and telling you more about in October. Enjoy the pictures in the slideshow above and please feel free to leave me comments. It's always fun talking to you, even if the conversation does seem a bit one-sided.