Introduction:
My film, We Chosen Few, is a historical fiction film that explores the contrast between a young radical missionary and an older cynical clergyman in rural North Wales. The film explores the duality and relationship of two divergent characters with opposing views on life. It was filmed as part of my MA Filmmaking course at Bangor University in September 2020, but after many challenges, episodes of self-doubt, and waves of apprehension, it was finally completed this year.
Inspiration:
The idea for We Chosen Few came from stumbling across the church featured in the film whilst exploring nearby Snowdonia just before the first lockdown. As soon as I stepped inside the hidden-away church high up in the hills, my immediate thought was that it was the perfect setting for a film. It became the perfect starting point to write a story of self-reflection after completing university and my master’s degree. I was immersing myself more in the Welsh culture and community that surrounded me and had also started learning Welsh. This allowed me to juxtapose and explore the different ideas through the story and characters of the film.
The Process:
Filming took place on location in North Wales over four days with a small crew due to restrictions imposed by lockdown rules and limits on gatherings of people at the time. We faced many challenges during filming, particularly at the church, which was remote, had no electricity, gas, or running water, and was accessed via a steep single-track road. I also had to direct the majority of the scenes at the location via a monitor. My favourite moment on set was the early 6 AM shoot at a local sheep field, where we captured a scene at sunrise. The majority of the film was shot with natural light where possible, which really helped bring more authenticity and texture to the visual style of the film.
What It Means to Be a Finalist:
Being selected as a finalist at Worcester Film Festival is an incredible honour. I am so grateful and proud to have the film screened at the festival and to bring it to a wider audience. I am really looking forward to experiencing it being shown in a cinema, where I think the film can truly come to life and immerse the audience in the story.
Where to Watch / Follow:
Follow the film on Instagram @wechosenfewshort for updates and behind-the-scenes content, and please follow @rnpcreative for future film projects!