Director: Darren Kent
Writer: Ben Trebilcook
Actors: Harry McIlroy, Alice Ryan, David Streames
Synopsis: That first Lockdown was tough even just the basics of a new, simpler routine, made it hard to cope and it was difficult to remember what normal life was once like…However, trying to get someone to remember their own life, instead of yours, is much more isolating!
With The Southend-on-Sea Film Festival will be returning once again from 26th – 29th May, I got an opportunity to ask Director Darren Kent a few questions about the film ‘You Know Me’ which has been selected to play at the festival on Saturday 28th May at 9 pm.
Q. What can we expect from the film?
A. We wanted to make a movie that had heart and soul after what has been a troubled time for many. Family being at the forefront. Suffering on your own, away from what makes the suffering bearable. i.e., family is what makes this lockdown a nightmare for father Charlie and his son Sam.
Q. What attracted you to the script for You Know Me?
A. Without giving too much away… this script was close to home and resonated with me instantly… when we cast David Streames alongside Harry Mcilroy I could visualise just how heartfelt this was going to be and they definitely do not disappoint. They have a beautiful connection on and off-screen, so it was the perfect casting in my opinion.
Q. What were some of your influences for the look and style of the film?
A. It was important to capture the pain and struggles, so we were very thorough with our choices. We wanted it to feel as if we were there with them as extended family members, watching in on them and our shot list reflected that. The colour choices were warm which would balance beautifully with our superb score by Emily Keep… lifting the emotions sky-high and pulling on your heartstrings.
Q. Were there any elements of the original script which were adapted during filming?
A. Some of the narration was adapted based on a change of location or if a line didn’t sound right off the page but Ben Trebilcook wrote a decent script, and it was a breath of fresh air when it hit my lap. It was an easy “Yes… I’ll do it” this time.
Q. What were your favourite moments whilst making the Film?
A. There are two moments that I loved Directing the most and they were a confused David at the glass window which is exceptional work from him as you’ll see and Harry playing and fingerpicking the guitar which made the scene super heartfelt. All the crew had a lump in their throats that day.
Q. Did you experience any issues whilst making the film?
A. It was a smooth few days and an emotional roller coaster but the one fundamental mistake we overlooked was the carer wearing a mask with her patient. So, a pickup day was set up and executed and it was a necessity for the film.
Q. What do you hope people will take away from the film
A. It oozes love, family and hope and puts life into perspective. We all have issues and struggles of our own but sometimes it takes, seeing others in a worse situation, to realise that actually, I’m quite lucky. I’m hoping it makes people stop and think about what’s really important in their lives… family.
Q. Do you have any other projects which you are working on?
A. I’m currently making a mini comedy sitcom called ‘Happy Hours’ … we have shot two episodes so far and have four more to shoot which has been a lot of fun. I’m currently working on my pitch deck for my Victorian London Pilot Series which is like a dark Oliver Twist where Pick Pockets, Prostitution and Poverty controls the streets of London. On the acting front… I’m starring in two short films and one feature film, set to start filming in mid-June.
So busy, busy, busy … just how I like it!
Q. If someone is looking to direct their first film, what advice would you give them?
A. What most Directors fail to do is the prep leading up to the shoot. Every shot needs to be worked out with the DP, so a thorough Recce is key. Study the script and understand it completely… understand the sound bites you need to hit in order for the storytelling to be perfect. The more you Direct the better you become and I’m becoming part of the furniture now in the Directing world and I love it! However, I’m also a drama queen that loves to act too of course.
You will get an opportunity to meet Darren Kent who will be one of the Guest Signers attending Southend’s FIRST Comic Con! May 29th 2022 Park Inn Palace Hotel. 10am -5pm.
The Southend-on-Sea Film Festival runs from 26th to 29th
You can find out more about the end and purchase tickets on the website here: https://www.southendfilmfestival.com/
Published in various websites, Philip is a reviewer who is best known for his interviews and media coverage of independent projects including; films, books, theatre and live events. Always on the lookout for something different to cover!
