Introduction:
[S I L V E R / W E L L] is an experimental film that explores ideas of loss and grief. It follows three characters who experience strange and life-changing events after seeing a cursed film. Utilizing a dreamlike narrative that leaves space for concepts and thoughts to be evoked in the viewer’s mind.
Inspiration:
The concept for ‘[S I L V E R / W E L L]’ came in its first iteration when Birmingham’s Electric cinema closed down. The loss of such an important place for myself and many others hit hard. Ideas of loss and grief came into focus. This combined with the closing of another cinema I had loved, The Royalty in Windermere, pushed me into wanting to create a film about the loss of films, people and spaces. In collaboration with a writer, we created a strange and atmospheric story. Visually, seeing films such as Lynch’s ‘Inland Empire’ and Kyle Edward Ball’s ‘Skinamarink’ really influenced our approach, wanting to create something with a strong DIY aesthetic.
The Process:
Filming took place almost entirely in my bedroom. The film’s very punk spirit was something we wanted to evoke and lean into. Various sets had to be hand-built with items sourced from charity shops, including three chairs that were used in the film. One of which, after responding to an open call, was chosen to be included in the MAC Birmingham exhibition ‘The Final Bid’ by internationally acclaimed artist Michael Pinsky. The film was scored with ambient and electronic music, which I had composed over the course of a year. Musically, I leaned into samples from old movies, cassette tapes and VHS to create a retro and nostalgic feel to the film’s score that matched well with the images we had created. In terms of what we shot on we used a mixture of mediums, blending together camcorders, vhs and Super 8 footage to create an almost collage-like look to the final film.
What It Means to Be a Finalist :
Having the film screened at Worcester Film Festival and shared with a wider audience is a huge honour. It is always so welcoming and such a vital coming together of creatives. To have a film included that is so experimental in nature, DIY in both its approach and intention is very exciting.
Where to Watch / Follow:
[S I L V E R / W E L L] will premiere at the Worcester Film Festival and has been submitted to other film festivals throughout the UK. You can follow me on Instagram @datshredboi for updates about the film and future projects.
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