I have been overwhelmed by the amazing responses and encouragement from the community here on steemit in just 24 hours! So therefore, I have decided to keep to my introduction post and keep you updated on behind the scenes info from various films promotional events and adventures...
So to let you guys know about an interesting project I am working on, My first opportunity to play a lead role in a film! Guardian and the Stone.
Meeting the Maker
I applied for this role only 2 weeks ago and with the cast only involving two characters, it would be competitive. Luckily to my surprise I was contacted quite swiftly for a casual interview and discussion of the role. On approaching a cafe Nero in Birmingham's busy town center bumped into the bubbly and enigmatic Mark D Gunn (director/writer).
dakarai13productions.wix.com/markgunn
Being a professional actor and stunt fighting instructor with a some major Hollywood roles we got off to a good start. Even though relatively new to film making, Mark,s passion about the film he was creating was awesome, as well as his organisation abilities and in-depth back story of the film and its concepts. This made me feel at ease and gave me a lot to work with in terms of developing the character of Galena.
The Synopsis/casting ad
Below is the synopsis taken from the casting call advertised.
"The story is about a young woman that hears voices calling to her, this person is not normally one that likes responsibility infact, runs from it but an outside force that calls to this person finds a stone that holds the key to life. With the old guardian fading he finds our character who is pure of heart and passes the power and responsibilities of protecting nature and everything that binds us to the universe. The character takes this on . if this short goes well it will lead to making the film into a feature from this short experimental film and is going to be entered into several film festivals and competitions. I have to mention it is no pay but you will be able to use as your show reel. Their are only two roles, one of old Guardian:male and Galena who becomes the new guardian:female. This role is a great starter for those wanting to get their feet on the ladder into film as an actor or actress also great to put on your cv."
Getting the role!
Out of 15 interviewed applicants I was picked for the role! On asking for feed back (something advise you always get your hands on even if you do not get the role) I was the only actress who had thought about the subtext and asked lots of questions about the character and the film. So ...a couple of days later I get the chance to meet my co-star Greg a wonderfully Zaney and experienced actor who has had supporting roles in the Dark Knight and Vikings so definitely a guy not afraid of a costume!
Tricks of the trade
We ran some lines together and clicked instantly chatting away about our costume ideas and characters development. Professional and Genuine Mark and Greg made me feel massively at ease which has not always been the case in this business. Mark provided CRB checks for everyone (including the crew) and told us that location had been arranged with the local police prior to shooting so we wouldn't get into any fiddly nonsense of trespassing or stragglers in the shot. For any aspiring actors looking to do collaborations and to build there show-reels, this is what you should look for when working with people you don't know and of course any expenses covered. Never be afraid to ask and check for references for these things as there are alot of con artists and scammers which i will have to fill you guys in on at a later date...
Following on to the Future
Last night was the location promo and test shoot, In which i will be writing another detailed blog about the outline of our day including interviews with the cast/crew and all the shenanigans that went with it. These amazing early pictures are from last night and were taken by Mark D Gunn and Super talented and witty Artist/Make up artist: Niki Ferguson
So if you are intrigued, like what you read and see of Guardian and the stone watch this space and FOLLOW ME!
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This is all set in the better known "middle earth" Birmingham UK. So if you are local and want to know more or get involved don't hesitate to reply!or message me @kittyhazardous Cheerio for now :)
You look great in that red dress and black boots, and congrats on getting the role!
Most Excellent Post!
Very thorough with great composition. And YES! I would love to collaborate if we get the chance! :D
It would make for a most excellent blog, the director is planning to enter the film in a few festivals in the US, so will hopefully let you know if all goes to plan!! gorgeous pic btw :)
That red dress is very pretty on you!
Glad to know you are playing the lead role. :)
Wishing you and the Guardian and the Stone team all the best! :)