Simon Marsden: A Life In Pictures (2018)
Director: Jason Figgis
The Sothend-on-Sea Film Festival will be returning for its 11th year from 23rd May to 27th May. In preparation for the event I got an opportunity to ask director Jason Figgis a few questions about the film ‘Simon Marsden: A Life In Pictures‘ which has been selected to play at the festival.
Q. Simon Marsden: A Life In Pictures has been selected to play at The Southend-on-Sea Film Festival. What can we expect from the film?
This film looks at Sir Simon Marsden’s life and work as seen through the eyes of those who knew him and admired him as well as an insight into his techniques and inspirations for his prodigious and prestigious output.
Q. This is a bit of a departure from the horror films which you are best known for. What inspired you to make the documentary about the work of Simon Marsden?
I have always been fascinated by Simon’s work – since I came across the first of his books in Eason on O’Connell Street. I couldn’t afford them at the time and so just sat in the aisle and soaked up every word and image. His photographs are incredibly evocative and soulful, and I never tire in the experience of looking through those weighty coffee table books. They transport you to another time, but a time that doesn’t really exist. These images are an artist’s impression of a completely romanticised gothic landscape.
Q. What were your inspirations for the look and style of the film?
I wanted the film to have a classic look and feel – almost a throwback to when documentaries were less about trying out the latest effect to get an idea across – and more about allowing the ideas speak for themselves. I wanted a film that reflected Simon’s own ideas of a world steeped in the mysteries of the paranormal and the evocative landscapes which he attempted to capture within his stunning images.
Q. Did you experience any issues or challenges whilst making the film?
None whatsoever. It was a dream to produce and direct this film. Everyone I approached wanted to be involved and our schedules always fit with each other’s to allow for a seamless production all round.
Q. What were some of your favourite moments during filming?
I think it was the time I spent at Simon’s home in Lincolnshire. My wife and daughter and I stayed with Simon’s wife Cassie and we filmed and reminisced and gathered as much material as we needed to help the narrative flow. It was beautiful to be steeped in the landscape that Simon loved so much.
Q. Did the film change at all from the original concept which you had planned?
Not an iota. It was one of those situations where the intention became the realised. Everyone involved wanted to do justice to Simon’s life and work, so we stayed very much on track and allowed the project to flow in a very organic way.
Q. What do you hope people will get from watching the film?
I am hoping that people will enjoy the brilliance and beauty of Simon’s legacy of work. We have had a wonderful reaction so far with approvals from publications such as Amateur Photography, Fortean Times and bodies such as The Royal Photographic Society so, I am hoping that audiences that greet the film will become immersed in Simon’s very unique style.
Q. Whilst collating and researching the work of Simon Marsden did you learn anything new from the experience?
Just what I had always suspected – that he was admired from all quarters for his work, his humour and his generosity of spirit. He was a wonderful man to have as a friend, a wonderful and humorous raconteur and a brilliant artist.
Q. Do you have any new projects which you are working on?
Yes indeed. I have just finished a documentary – The Haunting of M.R. James – looking at the work and inspirations behind the ghost stories of East Anglia’s M.R. James and a haunted house film called Winifred Meeks – filmed entirely on location at Dunwich, Suffolk and starring the acclaimed actress Lara Belmont The War Zone (1999), Rise of the Footsoldier (2007). I have several other documentary and feature film projects in development with my producing partner, journalist and author, John West.
Q. If someone is looking to direct their own film, what advice would you give them?
Find an idea that you are passionate about. Find a group of people who share that passion. Go and make your film.
The Southend-on-Sea Film Festival runs from Thursday 23rd May to Monday 27th May. You can find out more about the event and purchase tickets on the website 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!
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