Short Horror Film - New Narratives

When it comes to Black representation in film and TV the current narrative revolves around the 'hood' and gang involvement. The murder of George Floyd and the global Black Lives Matter movement were met by an increase in demand for stories about Black trauma. How often do we get to see fictional stories, stories that stimulate the imagination and allow audiences to lose themselves in a world of fantasy, science fiction or horror? Film provides a platform for social commentary but it also provides escapism from reality, a reality that is unfortunately often overwhelming for Black people in particular.  Most science fiction, fantasy and horror resemble whiteness and so it is hard for Black audiences to identify with the protagonist and can lead to imposter syndrome. Representation is incredibly important and with this film, the first in a series of short films, that will feature a majority Black cast and protagonist(s)  without continuing the trauma narrative. Young Black people will get to see individuals who they can identify with in a fictional story that they is scarcely seen... providing an escape from the low ceiling set by the negative stereotypical narratives.

The story will show young Black people out enjoying nature. The young actors will not only get the opportunity to get paid experience in film but will also enjoy a few days away from city life, with the whole experience being documented (by a young Black prospective cinematographer) in a behind the scenes video.

We have partnered with Inspirational Youth to ensure that this is an impactful experience for all the young people involved and to plan activities during breaks from filming.

 

We hope that this film will encourage young Black creatives to imagine themselves as the hero in a world of science fiction, fantasy, horror or anything else they can imagine.

We don't want to give away details about the story just yet - as I want it to remain a mystery. It won't be much of a horror film if it doesn't make you jump. But updates will be added to the page as the project progresses.

 

So what is this fundraiser for? We have put in some of our own money, along with a generous contribution from Inspirational Youth. Your kind donations will go into the cost of taking the cast and crew to Wales, accommodation, equipment hire, props and wardrobe. Your contribution will also allow us to pay for an original score to be composed and the all important sound design needed to make you jump! Whilst the lead crew and I will all be working for free, it would be really great to be able to pay the young actors so they can get paid to pursue their passion.

 

As soon as the film is complete it will be uploaded online for you all to watch at your leisure - for free, along with a behind the scenes video to accompany the film.

 

Any amount donated will be highly appreciated.

 

Our lead team is as follows:

 

Director and Writer - Leon Oldstrong

Producer - Emma Norton

Cinematographer - William Hadley

Camera Assistant - Ladi Dawodu

Editor - Alex James-Saleh
Associate Producer - Samuel Kyi

Executive Producers - Eamonn Madden and Louise Hiller

 

Filming in Wales, UK

 

Best

 

Leon Oldstrong and the team at Solaris2