Hi! My name is Leo and I am a 20 year old filmmaker currently finishing my final year at film school in London.

I believe stories have the power to change the world. They can challenge perspectives, build empathy, and shine a light on issues that too often go unnoticed.

For my latest project I am directing and writing. I’m diving into a story that explores the complexities of the UK foster care system. In the UK, over 80,000 children are in care, many of whom face instability, trauma, and a system that often struggles to meet their needs. Yet, these stories are rarely explored, let alone on screen.

The aim of this film is to shed light on the emotional struggles of foster families, the difficult decisions faced by social workers, and the lives of children navigating the foster care system. This isn’t just a film; it’s a way to start conversations and raise awareness around an issue that impacts so many lives.

The following director’s treatment offers a detailed look into the world of my short film. Each slide will guide you through the subject matter, characters, story structure, themes, and the visual approach, giving you an insight into the heart of the project and its powerful impact.

1. Subject Matter

This film sheds light on the realities of the UK foster care system, exploring untold narratives and the emotional complexities of children and carers navigating it. The aim is to bring authenticity and awareness to a topic that needs more representation in cinema.

2. Logline

The logline captures the essence of the film—a heartfelt, tension-filled story of love, resilience, separation & the relationship between a foster carer and a young boy.

3. Act 1

A brief summary of act 1.

4. Act 2

A brief summary of act 2.

5. Act 3

A brief summary of act 3.

6 & 7. Character Breakdown

These slides dive into the key characters of the story, giving you a glimpse into their personalities, motivations, and the emotional stakes that define their journeys.

8. Themes

Themes of motherhood, the impact of trauma & abuse, loss & powerlessness, failure in the foster care system and love are at the heart of this story.

9. Visual Style and Tone

Using muted tones and intimate cinematography, the film’s visual style mirrors the raw emotion of the story. The understated production design allows the characters’ inner lives to take centre stage.

10. Impact

This project doesn’t just tell a story—it raises awareness about the realities of the UK foster care system and gives a voice to experiences often left unheard. By supporting this film, you’re contributing to a powerful narrative that has the potential to create empathy and start important conversations.

This film is my final graduation project, representing the culmination of everything I’ve learned throughout my time at film school. It’s a story I deeply believe in, and I hope it will leave a lasting impact on everyone who sees it and hopefully raise awareness about the UK foster care system

Any support, whether through donations or simply sharing this campaign, would mean the world to me and help bring this meaningful project to life. Thank you for being part of the journey!