Go With The Magic - an inspirational short film

Our latest inspirational short film is ‘Go With The Magic’ with guitar maker, Stefan Sobell. Master craftsman, Stefan has more than 50 years experience, making instruments for artists like Martin Simpson and Mark Knopfler. Our film gives an overview of his life and career as well as his advice to inspire creatives of all types.

“Don’t introduce stress.”

Filming on location in beautiful Northumberland, we were able to capture some of Stefan’s processes, but more importantly hear his nuggets of wisdom about carving out a creative career and following your passion. Stefan’s ethos on life and building guitars focuses around the idea of not introducing extra pressure or stress into an instrument or situation. It’s why he pursued instrument-making - even when facing financial difficulties. It’s always about the work.

Stefan Sobell playing one of his latest instruments

Stefan Sobell playing one of his latest instruments

“Go With The Magic.”

Stefan recognises wood is a special material and the sound it can make is truly magical. There are no rules, other than ‘Go with the magic’. Use your instincts and experience to hone whatever it is you’re creating. As filmmakers, it’s something myself and DOP, Matt Holt really relate to and it was a privilege to spend time with Stefan and tell his story. Watch the film and comment below to tell us how you felt about it and what your creative passions are. Stefan’s story will strike a chord with anyone. Sorry. I couldn’t resist.


How We Made A Short Film During Lockdown: LIFE SUPPORT

LIFE SUPPORT is a heartfelt emotional drama about two women - Magz and Shona - and a Skype call that will change both of their lives forever. Watch the whole 10 minute film right now on YouTube.

LIFE SUPPORT - A SHORT FILM - WATCH FOR FREE ON YOUTUBE

Lockdown limitations . . .

I wanted to write something we could produce on a limited budget, during lockdown, following the strict stay at home regulations but that would still pack an emotional punch. I centred Shona and Magz’ story around something we’ve all become more familiar with over the past few weeks - a Skype call.

My first challenge was to find two actors who could bring the characters to life, despite the technical challenges filming remotely would bring. One of those actors was Rachel Nottingham. I worked with Rachel on other short film projects, including Guilty Bunch of Flowers and Inkling and knew she would be perfect for the role of Magz. Fortunately, our regular collaborator, Keith Large, helped me to find our other talented lead actor - Amy Allen, playing the role of Shona. Keith’s production company, Klens UK, also financed the film.

Directing from afar . . .

As the film was shot during the height of the lockdown restrictions, myself, Amy and Rachel were all stuck in our respective homes so the challenge became how we could utilise technology to create an environment that allowed Amy and Rachel to connect as actors - yet still gave me the opportunity to direct and help them to craft an emotionally powerful performance. We settled on using the Zoom conferencing platform.

A quick break during our Zoom rehearsals

A quick break during our Zoom rehearsals

We rehearsed together, shared notes and then during the actual takes, I would turn off my camera so as not to distract Amy and Rachel, whilst I watched each performance unfold. It was fun and challenging to play with what seems like such a rigid format, but it’s surprising what can be achieved by thinking about where the actors place themselves within the frame at key moments in the script. Despite the seemingly fixed cameras, we looked to recreate the feel of different shots by actors physically getting closer, moving away or - as with the character of Magz - embracing a handheld style to emphasise moments of tension and drama.

Sound completes the picture . . .

The separately recorded footage was sent to me to edit, where I created a visual style that I hoped would enhance the feeling of eavesdropping on a real-life Skype conversation, whilst still being an engaging piece of drama. After which, we added sound effects and music composed by longtime musical collaborator, George Odom. George created an emotionally-charged soundtrack that adds another powerful dimension to the story.

Creativity through crisis . . .

The characters in Life Support find connection in the least expected place and during the strangest of times, but like Shona and Magz, we creatives can find inspiration and discover new ways to reach our audiences and tell stories that matter. How about you? What creative projects have you been pursuing during lockdown? What plans have you made and what ideas are bursting to get out? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to watch and share LIFE SUPPORT - we’d love to hear your feedback.