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The Importance of Small Theatres

It is that time of year when peoples minds turn to panto, actors across the UK are rehearsing and crews are setting up the props, costumes and sets. Many will see that energy on the larger stages such as the Kings etc, but what about the small venues and local shows?

Small theatres be it a local church hall or a community centre put on shows of varying formats from the classic panto that we all know and love to kitchen sink dramas and musicals which can get overlooked.

These shows can be a huge part of the cultural landscape and offer a training ground for both cast and crew as well as a cost efficient way for people to experience stage shows that would otherwise be off their radar.

With many smaller venues closing or losing their funding it is important to support them by attending the shows and being part of that journey.

Cast and crew use these opportunities to build their cv, learn their craft and skillset and from experience, theatre skills such as time management or just being an extra pair of hands with the show when your starting out can be a Huge plus later in your career giving you a better sense of what the industry offers and allowing you a chance to Earn your craft and network. In broader terms am dram or even a pro show on a small scale can be a testing ground for yourself to see where you want to be in terms of your career path and offers in some cases a community based expansion of your network.

I have long endorses working in theatre in particular to makeup artists even if you are volunteering your time and energy you can learn a lot and it will benefit you in the future, the shows are well done and smaller venues offer different challenges that you will learn to overcome.

Taking the time to learn and be open to the options that are out there including those smaller venues can be a game changer and something I endorse.

iKons September Show

With their landmark September show now over, and the press talking about the stellar line up it is without question a triumph of the creative scene that has opened the doors to countless designers and maintained House of iKons at the top spot (rightly so) of independent fashion weeks worldwide.

Septembers show was a huge showcase with designers from across the world and creatives coming together to combine their talents and through the House of iKons. With its Royal connections and global outreach, this has become the Must-see show of the fashion calendar attracting the best and brightest of the fashion scene:

Title Sponsor: Tykorchélli

Supporting Sponsors: Girl Meets Brush & The Fashion Life Tour

Full Schedule Saturday 14th September:

Segment One Show: 11.00am

  • Grand Opening: House of Musa

  • YS Clothier - represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • MALONGWENA PRIDE BY DME

  • LS Collection

  • Steadfast Designs

  • Grand Finale: Oliver Zulueta

Segment Two Show: 2.00pm

  • Grand Opening: Jeny Tjahyawati x TORANG

  • 2Kat Couture

  • Schirin Style’s

  • Uzy Fauziah

  • CLC Couture

  • Bernhardt Collection

  • Tiara Donyale Collection represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • PD Designs

  • Elon Son represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Grand Finale: Poppy Dharsono

Segment Three Show: 4.00pm

  • Grand Opening: Arabesque Boudoir

  • Evette Monique Couture - represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Muse & Sensia

  • Hafanana - represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Think Ocean

  • Essy Masita

  • Sigrun

  • TORANG

  • Ronica Marie Couture

  • Grand Finale: Benu Apparel

Solo Show: 7.00pm - World Masquerade of Tykorchélli - The Exclusive Launch of The Diamond Collection.

Instagram: @hoifashionweeklondon

Face Book: HOI Fashion Week London

Website: www.houseofikons.com

Source: http://www.houseofikons.com/

Taking Notes

The last month has really flown in with more than a few meetings by phone and the various emails that fly back and forward concerning the blog and planning out PR pieces for clients or just the general research we have to do for our in house work that we thought it would be good to talk about some of it on the creatives site.

Over the next few weeks we will be doing more pieces promoting stage shows such as Smoke Not Included (Headless acting) as they go to the Edinburgh Fringe and talking to actors and most interesting for us, an increased amount of work with the Sons of Adonis brand expanding their marketing and other elements that we are closely involved in. *Stay tuned to our Facebook page for updated guest blogs by JamesC on the Adonis website.

We are really excited about the work that we have lined up and will of course, be sharing as much as possible across the blog and our social networks.


Fragmented: a Short Film

Having already garnered festival laurels and awards, the short film Fragmented by Accion Films is a prime example of the excellence that can be found on the indie scene and shows that working outside the mainstream is a valid and in many cases fruitful avenue.

Built around heartache and building to a heart-warming moment of family unity, the creative team led by Alejandro Forcado has given the world a glimpse into the beauty and humanity of his country, the people and brought a familiar concept into a new realm that with an amazing team of creatives from the actors to the crew, and showcased talents that deservedly are receiving accolades for their work.

To learn more about the Accion Films see:

Accion Films YouTube.

Accion Films Instagram.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoAso0DZRm...

Propshak Ayrshire

Located in the heart of Ayrshire, Propshak has become the go-to location for creative talent in props, fx and combined with their community focused training academy that is opening the doors to talent from all walks of life the propshak is the place to be and the place to be seen in the Scottish industry.

Working with some of the best and brightest in the media industry, the teams work can be seen across genres from theatre to film and TV with clients ranging from the BBC and Netflix to stage production, it is no surprise that they are fast becoming a force to be reckoned with in the industry and earning a reputation for their workshops that are giving opportunities to learn and hone artistic skills in the creative fields.

The workshops are designed to be about community accessibility with a fantastic team of staff and volunteers training the next generation prop makers and fx artists in everything from masks to moulds, and so much more.

Propshak offers services to meet the needs of the smallest to the largest productions and pride themselves on the quality of their work and commitment to industry standards.

To learn more about Propshak and their work see:

Propshak Website.

Propshak Instagram.

Propshak Facebook.

Propshak YouTube.

Source: https://www.propshak.co.uk/

Introducing Alejandro Forcado Filmmaker

Having just completed his latest film project, which we will be talking about soon, we wanted to talk in detail about his work and introduce the talented Alejandro Forcada whose work has garnered international praise and accolades within the film community.

As a start to introducing your work in film and media, can you tell us more about yourself  and what you do?  

I’m a filmmaker since 20 years ago. I begun taking acting classes when I was twelve years  old, but later it got my attention the behind scene cinema business. For that reason at 18 years  old I introduced myself in Cinema school until I became a filmmaker, obviously that process  took its time, however with passion, love, commitment and hard work/ study I’m a filmmaker  as I do today. Although I’m a screen writer and most of my short films have been written by  me.

Can you tell us more about your past projects and what you are currently working on?  

In my career as an indie filmmaker I developed myself making not just short films, between  them I have made video clips, documentaries, tv shows and commercials. But If I honest, I’m  still making such productions, the small difference right now is that my big focus is totally headed in showcasing on international film festivals, with an unique objective to get in that  world and keep myself in that way to stay as a real indie professional filmmaker in cinema  matters. 

What is your biggest obstacle to creating films and what would you is your biggest  achievement as a filmmaker?  

Like everyone else who have had all kind of obstacles, in my case the biggest obstacle was  the lack of support, I mean about the goverment regarding at cultural issues or cultural  developments staff who almost never have heard us to supporting to carry on such projetc.  But beyond of it that I din’t have their help, that kind of experience helped me a lot to be  more self - sufficient and provide resources I needed from another more solid perspective  and I Can tell you about the mentioned experienced was the best thing ever happened to me,  because of that I’m the man I’m, and not just in my profession…in other senses of life as  well.

What does the future hold for you and your team in media and creative terms? What can we  expect to see from you?  

What I’m able to see so far about my “future” in media and creative or film terms, well…as a  team and my self are making a great sacrifice and effort to get what we feel on creative  business. We currently are having very good results both worldwide films festivals including  international press. Through those real evidences we’re living…we can ensure we’re in the  right way. Of course If we keep our philosophy how we manage such matters, we’ll have a  prosper future in the mentioned areas.

Is there any advice you would like to offer to people entering the field of film that you wish  you had known when you started?  

The advise…I mean I never advise anybody, but something I do is sharing my experience,  therefore the suggestion or recommendation is that anybody can give up themselves, we know is a hard path…we know takes time to get what we really wish…but never…ever give up…is  not an option…THE OPTION IS TO KEEP ON MOVING…ALWAYS…DESPITE ALL.  Another recommendation is to change the strategy of your goal/ objetive. We can’t use the  same method / strategy or plan…we need to change them according to every circunstance we  face, but there is something else: THE LOVE..THE PASSION FOR THIS PROFESSION  you never let that finish…you never let that fire goes out…before all…you keep on. That’s a  promise…doing in that way…you will get much more things you have expected.

To learn more about Alejandro and his work see:

Accion Films YouTube.

Accion Films Instagram.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/@alejandroforcada7...

Soutar Fine Art: Inspiration and Appreciation

Inspiration comes in many forms when you work in media, from the walk to work to the art on our walls, there is always something that catches your attention and as a collector of art, our creative director takes inspiration from the work and many stories of the talented Stewart Nicol Soutar, a fine artist with an extensive back catalogue of work and anecdotes that we wanted to share.

Stewart Nicol Soutar has a creative background that has seen him teach, work on sets with a wide range of TV shows and creating advertising blocks while working on what has been dubbed neo surrealist abstract work that captivates the imagination and sold to critical acclaim in the European and American markets where his work features in the finest galleries and homes.

His newest venture takes some of his iconic work and puts them in limited edition format encapsulating his stellar art and varied collection into a series of beautiful framed images that can be placed in your home as an accent piece or in a work environment as a conversation piece.

*Corporate art collections are now common and can elevate your space from a standard office to a comfortable gallery atmosphere with minimal effort.

Personally we are going to be negotiating with Stewart about hiring pieces that will be used for editorials and film and possibly even adding to our collection of original art work because we appreciate the value of having these stunning images as both art and inspiration.

To learn more about the artist or to purchase work see:

Soutar Fine Art Website.

Source: https://www.soutarfineart.co.uk/

A Must See Brand: Narrative Cosmetics

As a makeup artist by trade, I am always looking for new options to add to add to my working kit that will add to my work or give me a wider range of options. Having found Narrative Cosmetics, in particular the FX range, I am really excited about the possibilities to create and for my work in film and TV the budget friendly side that will be a major plus going forward.

While the range offers up a wide array of beauty oriented products, it was the cream palettes from the FX range that first caught my attention and after a little research I can see there being so much more to the Narrative Cosmetics line that needs to be seen.

The FX range covers all the basics and with the addition of a YouTube channel with tutorials, you can utilize the range to create anything from a simple bruise to a creature with minimal fuss and maximum impact. Designed to meet the highest professional standards Narrative Cosmetics is fast becoming the go to brand for creatives across mediums.

Competitively priced, and expanding the range to support a wide range of requirements, you can go from theatrical to HD standard easily and with film and TV being a primary focus of my work, access to silicone compounds for quick wound creation or going old school with wax, the medical grade adhesive is a must see for the cost alone, Narrative has the scope to be a real kit staple.

If you are a makeup artist, no matter the stage of your career, passionate about FX and makeup then I strongly recommend you check out the range from film to fashion you will find something that will boost your kit and open up new potential in your creative work without losing out on quality.

To learn more about the Narrative Cosmetics range see:

Narrative Cosmetics Website.

Narrative Cosmetics YouTube.

Narrative Cosmetics Instagram.

Narrative Cosmetics Facebook.

Source: https://narrativecosmetics.com/

Smoke Not Included Updates

‘*Smoke Not Included’ is well on its way for it’s Fringe debut and already gaining attention for its quirky story and social media savvy sharing not just updates on the cast and crew but giving us insights into the crowdfunding campaigns progress:

“I’m feeling incredibly proud that we have managed to get to this point, it didn’t feel long ago that we were just having the conversation on creating HeadlessActing. Our first play is coming to the fringe this year, I’m so excited, it’s a great cast. The play is funny and random and weird, which is what makes it brilliant” - Kayleigh Gallacher

HeadlessActing and the team behind the project are enthusiastic about the show and of course the potential of live theatre in Scotland, pushing their comedic, quirky project as hard as possible to give not only a platform to talent but some light relief to the audience in this one act play.

“I’m absolutely ecstatic to get started with this wonderful bunch! We’ve had some bumps recently but it’s looking like we’ll be well underway by April 20th! We really have something unique here and I can’t wait to share it. We’ve got lots of plans for the future! Two shows are coming next year! We will be working with a variety of different writers on one of them! Our Five Year plan has definitely grown…” - Brandon Ferguson

With the Fringe firmly in their sights, the scope of this project goes beyond a simple stage play comedy and opens up to wider possibilities that with time I am sure will make HeadlessActing developing other projects in the background. A company to watch not just for their performance but social commentary and satire. 

Moving into the future we can see so much potential for the company not just on stage but in the future TV (or even the now much lauded internet services) where stage shows are given as much of a voice as TV and film, however for now they are playing smart and building their platform based on vision and grassroots support.

To learn more about Headless Acting or ‘*Smoke Not Included’ see:

*Smoke Not Included Crowdfunding Campaign.

Smoke Not Included TikTok.

HeadlessActing Instagram.

HeadlessActing Twitter.

HeadlessActing Facebook.


Introducing The FP Arts Short Film Festival

Film Festivals are a huge part of not just getting your film seen but establishing yourself in the market and it is a real pleasure to see The FP Arts Short Film Festival (founded by Fulfilment Pictures) is bringing this option to the East Kilbride area with its festival opening the doors to networking on a local level and films from the global market together creating a monthly and annual event calendar that is going to change the landscape of film and open up the doors to creative talent across the spectrum.

With two winners each month from the jury’s choice, and a winner based on the audience feedback, this will give people from across the world a chance to have their work showcased. Designed specifically for short films (between five and eighteen minutes including credits), The FP Arts Short Film Festival is gearing up to be the social event of the creative calendar and a chance to network with likeminded people.

The festival categories are:

  • Best Short Film - (With a cash prize of £5,000 and a trophy)

  • Best Actor

  • Best Actress

  • Best Director

  • Best Cinematography

  • Best Original Score

  • Best Editing

  • Best Make-Up

  • Best Sound

  • Best Production Design

*Each category winner receives a trophy, certificate and laurel for their film.

  • Requirements:

  • Your film must have been completed after 1st of January 2023.

  • Running time including credits must be between 5 - 18 minutes.

  • If not in English, have English subtitles.

To learn more about the festival or book tickets see:

The FP Arts Short Film Festival Film Freeway.

Fulfilment Pictures Website.

Event Tickets.


Source: https://filmfreeway.com/FPArtsShortFilmFes...

An iKonic Start To 2024

As The House of iKons hits its 10 year anniversary, there is much to be celebrated with designers and creative talent from across the world joining the ranks, the talent and spectacle of the iKons show has become the standard bearer for how an independent fashion event can become a platform for music, design and creative talent that breaks boundaries.

“Amongst the many accomplishments of iKons as a show and platform it is worth noting their continued work promoting talent which has become something of a regal affair with Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand as the UK Ambassador of the Royal Thai project bringing the exquisite design and cultural heritage of Thailand to London and showing the potential of fashion to showcase her country in the most spectacular way.

Not just a showcase front of house with designers and models but backstage with a creative team behind the scenes who work hard from the makeup team to the dressers, House of iKons has become a hub of talent and a springboard to so many new and amazing talents:

Schedule of designers that showcased and exhibited on Saturday 17th February 2024, Sponsored by Girl Meets Brush & The Fashion Life Tour.

Doors open for Exhibition 11.00am

Exhibitors:

  • La Pham x Empower Women Asia

  • Silvia V Crafts

  • Love Collection

  • VIP 360

  • Her Rise Heritage

  • COSELF Represented by UKCNDEA

  • POL Magazine

  • Josh Rosales Photography

  • The Nose Family

  • B’Leo

Segment ONE 12.30pm

  • Grand Opening: Jhay Layson

  • MALONGWENA PRIDE BY DME

  • Music Performance - Eltee

  • CLC Couture

  • Grand Finale: House of Musa Represented by Lynette Medina

Segment TWO 3.00pm

  • Grand Opening: Celebration of Thailand & House of iKons Fashion Week London

  • Sonata

  • Norma Ebanks represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Love Collection

  • Anna Flowers Designs represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Music Performance - Taylor Fangman

  • Idol Jose represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Kéarnna Rhea

  • YS Clothier represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Grand Finale: House of Laith

Segment THREE 6.00pm

  • Presentation by COSELF Represented by UKCNDEA

  • Grand Opening: La Pham

  • Blueprint Effect represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Her Rise Heritage

  • Music Performance - Eltee

  • Bold Black Dresses represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Joan Madison Couture

  • Recep Demiray

  • Grand Finale: Tykorchélli

For further information on The House of iKons see:

House of iKons Website.

House of iKons Facebook.

House of iKons Instagram.


Source: https://www.houseofikons.com/

A Slow Start To a New Year

Although it has been a slow start to the new year with the blog, that is not to say we are not busy working and there is some really interesting projects on the cards that will be internally built in conjunction with some of our clients.

Our creative director, JamesC, has been ill recently but able to coordinate calls and emails that will see him heading up ad campaigns and editorials in conjunction with Sons of Adonis skincare for men. A huge coup that we are incredibly proud of and will be using to add to our brand as the lost and build up other elements that Shakti Sood (Sons of Adonis founder) will be a major part of.

With concept and mood boards being built at the moment it is going to be fun to work with Sons of Adonis on these projects and a chance to mix the commercial with the artistic side of makeup for men.

Other meetings are being planned and naturally we will be releasing more information about our plans and showcasing the images we create.

The House of iKons 10th Anniversary Show

In what will be the 10th anniversary of The House of iKons show, the accolades just keep racking up. A leading light of the independent fashion event scene and one of The hot tickets of the fashion calendar, House of iKons is striding into 2024 with February showcasing some of the best and brightest the fashion world has to offer from across the globe.

The House of iKons has gone from strength to strength over the last decade and showcased a huge array of designers, given voice and a platform to creatives of all stripes to showcase their skills.

As they move into a new phase of the fashion journey it is impossible not to be in awe of the work of CEO and Founder Savita Kaye and her team whose hard work and boundary pushing approach to fashion and the creative arts has seen the rise of designers, makeup artists, and crew moving in circles ranging from the catwalks of the world to meeting with Royalty and dignitaries from film, TV, red carpet, politics and some of the biggest stores in the world.

With the schedule for February packed full of artisans, designers and creative talent showcasing not just their brands but their collective artistic skills, The House of iKons has become The place to be seen, The place to showcase, and ultimately a platform for talent.

Schedule for Show Saturday 17th February 2024 Sponsored by Girl Meets Brush & The Fashion Life Tour:

Doors open for Exhibition 11.00am

Exhibitors:

  • La Pham x Empower Women Asia

  • Zaira Christa

  • Silvia V Crafts

  • Love Collection

  • VIP 360

  • Her Rise Heritage

  • COSELF Represented by UKCNDEA

  • POL Magazine


    Segment ONE 12.30pm

  • Grand Opening: Jhay Layson

  • MALONGWENA PRIDE BY DME

  • Music Performance - Eltee

  • LC Couture

  • Grand Finale: House of Musa Represented by Lynette Medina


    Segment TWO 3.00pm

  • Grand Opening: Celebration of Thailand & House of iKons Fashion Week London

  • Sonata

  • The Fashion Life Tour 

  • Love Collection

  • Anna Flowers Designs Represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Music Performance - Taylor Fangman

  • Kearnna Rhea

  • YS Clothier Represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • House of Laith


    Segment THREE 6.00pm

  • PRESENTATION by COSELF Represented by UKCNDEA

  • Grand Opening: La Pham

  • Blueprint Effect Represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Her Rise Heritage

  • Bold Black Dresses Represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Music Performance - Eltee

  • Joan Madison Couture

  • The Fashion Life Tour

  • Sharnel Guy

  • Grand Finale: Tykorchelli with live performance Sam Tinnesz

  • AFTER PARTY from 8.30pm till Late - Music, Finger Food & Drink

  • Live music performances by Damien Soul & Paisleigh B

    For further information on The House of iKons or to purchase tickets see see:

    House of iKons Tickets.

    House of iKons Website.

    House of iKons Facebook.

    House of iKons Instagram.








Source: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hoi-fashion...

Dark Forest: A Cinematic Short

Cinema started with the short film and it has been a long tradition of movie makers to take this process and work to create something fresh, a story that is strong enough to stand on its own and convey a message in a short amount of time, Nevis Studios is now stepping into that arena with their new crowdfund project: Dark Forest.

“In the gripping thriller "Dark Forest," Detectives Danny and Fiona pursue a serial killer terrorizing the Scottish highlands. The tension escalates as they close in on the elusive criminal and search for missing victim Anna Frey.”

With a creative vision that will open up doors to creativity as well as jobs, the team behind this crowd funder for Dark Forest, are looking at an expansive and long reaching movement of cinema.

Crowd funding is a common practice now and gives people the opportunity to be a part of the creation of cinema and the team behind Dark Forest are open to the challenges that this creates and see it as an investment in not just a film but in the process.

To learn more about the company or the project see:

Nevis Studios Website.

Nevis Studios Facebook.

Nevis Studios Instagram.

Dark Forest Campaign.

Source: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/dark-fo...

A New Addition To The Lost Library

A new addition to the lost library is the fantastic book by Begona F Martin titled Special Makeup Effects & Prosthetics - An essential guide, a truly fascinating and well structured look at the potential of special FX and prosthetics aimed at the cosplay market, it offers up a wealth of information, resources and tips that will be beneficial to a wide range of creatives from makeup artists working in media to cosplayers looking to up their game.

With her extensive background in the arts as well as FX, Begona’s (BB to her friends) book is to me, a must read for those looking to expand their knowledge and test the waters of flat moulds and silicone, with step by step images and detailed explanations of each process with cost-efficient recommendations that will help those on a budget looking to get more creative in their work taking you through materials and techniques in a way that is easy to follow and insightful.

From the images to the text, it is all created by Begona over two years showcasing absolute passion for not just the special FX industry but sharing the skills that she has gained over the course of her career.

To learn more about the book or to purchase from her range of ready made FX or just to follow her work see:

Begona F Martin Website and Store.

BBFX Etsy Store.

Begona Martin Instagram.

Cosplay Instagram.

Source: https://www.begonafmartin.com/product-page...

Discussing Film with Kemal Yildirim

Expanding on our previous blogs with the team behind The Foreboding: Fractured, we talk to director, editor and DOP Kemal Yildirim about the films making.

You were a leading voice behind The Foreboding: Fractured as the director. Can you tell us a little more about the thought process behind the creation of this project?

When Alexander sent me the script I was immediately taken with the characters he created and how he captured that feeling of what comes next on our journeys into adulthood. I have always been a fan of horror and in particular ghost story and folklore genres. As Director and Cinematographer I wanted to create a sense of unease, that these characters who are on the cusp of adulthood are in danger. I also wanted to create a sense that the infamous woodland they enter has a life of its own and plays on their fears. I used the tropes from the folklore and supernatural genre to do this.

What challenges have you faced in the making of the project and how did you overcome them?

As with all films there will always be challenges. Our biggest challenge was how remote the location was and that it had no power outlets. So we had to rely on a generator to help aid our shoot. Our first generator blew up so that meant one of our night shoots was affected. The good old British weather was some of the worst I have seen with torrential rain and winds, but none of this stopped us. The thing I love about indie filmmaking is the tenacity and team spirit to get through stressful situations for the sake of the production, a singular goal of getting the film over the line and to see the vision through.

Now that the project is complete and you have started the PR and marketing what is next for you as a creative that you can share?

There are always more projects in the pipeline, I am lucky as I have a good career as a cinematographer as well so I am working with some really exciting filmmakers from the indie scene. I am also developing some really interesting scripts ready to launch into production when the timing is right.

Is there any advice you can offer to people starting out or creating their own film?

My advice is simple, the times we are in right now is a great time to be a filmmaker. Tech is more affordable and with so much talent behind and in front of the camera there really isn’t an excuse not to make your film. The script is key, have a solid script and build a team of like minded creatives to help bring that vision to life.

To learn more about the film see:

IMDB The Foreboding: Fractured.

Horror Scream Video Vault Interview.

Blazing Minds Interview.

Podcast Interview.

Introducing Screaming Unicorn Productions

In the current content hungry world we find ourselves talking to Screaming Unicorn Productions, based in Glasgow, and making films for the world, they have already garnered numerous festival accolades for their short horror films and quest to bring cinematic projects to a worldwide audience.

A close knit group, they welcome new faces and talents who join the team whose passion for films shines out in their grindhouse style of horror filmmaking and gives them something of a unique look that works well and keeps the content flowing as well as creating opportunities such as their latest project (crowdfunding is underway) Skelf a Christmas Horror, which judging by previous projects will be a critical success and garner the team more accolades to add to the growing list.

Open to the potential of collaboration, the Screaming Unicorn productions ethos is about community and learning with each project opening up the chance to expand on skills or add to your repertoire by being part of something new, a really clever way of building not just a network but making film accessible and something The Lost Creatives approves of.

From a purely artistic stance, horror offers the most potential for creativity and fun in film, making this a concept that works and opens up (creaking) doors to festival accolades and commercial sales with the digital download market.

To learn more about the company or to support their new project via their crowdfunding campaign see:

Skelf: A Christmas Horror Short Fundraiser.

Screaming Unicorn Productions Website.

Screaming Unicorn Productions YouTube.

Screaming Unicorn Productions Instagram.

Screaming Unicorn Productions Facebook.

Source: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/screa...

Expanding on The Foreboding: Fractured

We are always happy to talk to filmmakers and actors who take the leap and create their own projects and The Foreboding: Fractured is one of those films that captured attention from the poster, and of course the various interviews we are lucky to be able to speak to Alexander who was part of the trio behind the creation of the film.

You were a major part of the creation of The Foreboding: Fractured as both the  writer & of course the final film production, what was the thinking behind this  horror project?  

I suppose it would depend on what stage we are talking about. At the very beginning the  main focus was how we could make a teen horror flick without it being cliché or exactly  the same as the others. Then hearing the timeframe we had made me have one thought  “Let’s do it.” If we’re talking two weeks in then I was more thinking about the SAG AFTRA strike & whether continuing the film was a good idea since the strike was  something I supported. The answer became keep the film going due to the fact we don’t  have a big corporation behind us, it was myself, Peter & Kemal with a very dedicated  team. Honestly there were so many thoughts that went through my head throughout the  course of the project. Some were purely down to the script & the story, the others came  down to my acting. 

As a writer & creator, which part of the process do you feel you most enjoy? In  front of the camera? Behind the camera? Writing the stories? Or a combination of  these?  

I mean first & foremost I’m an actor, so playing Connor was something I really enjoyed &  also quite unexpected. In front of the camera it was a joy being able to work alongside  Eve Kathryn Oliver & Olivia Bennett. Obviously there’s Peter as well but I feel like that’s  kind of a given. Myself & Peter have been wanting to act alongside one another for a  while so finally being able to do it was brilliant. It just felt right. I loved coming up with  the stories, the characters & how the world intertwines with all of it. Having Kemal come  on & really embracing the world that the story is set in made the project that much  easier & he had such an amazing understanding of it. It got to the point where even  though I created this world, it felt like Kemal & Peter had a far better understanding of it  than I did in the end. I feel like they definitely know all my little tricks now. 

You & the team are currently working on PR for your project including interviews  & festival planning. What do you feel will be the next phase after this project & the  marketing?  

Well Myself, Kemal & Peter have been talking about the future of the world that’s been  created & if we were to return to it, how we’d go about it. We love this world, we love the  characters. We’ve spoken about making a feature however it is all up in the air. If the audience likes the film & wants to see what I would consider the true perspective, then chances are it’ll be made.  

What advice do you have for people who are starting out or looking to start their  own projects?  

I think the best advice I could possibly give is throw yourself into it. If you have an idea,  run with it as best as you can. You’ve got to be a little bit risky & you have to be okay  with the idea of not running through a wall but finding a way over it. On sets big & small  there are always issues, very very rarely is it smooth sailing & believe it or not that is  quite possibly the best part about it.

To learn more about the film see:

IMDB The Foreboding: Fractured.

Horror Scream Video Vault Interview.

Blazing Minds Interview.

Podcast Interview.





The Foreboding: Fractured

We are always impressed when people take risks and put together projects big or small to showcase their talents, The Foreboding: Fractured is just such a project and with the cast and crew currently doing the media rounds we will be talking in more detail with them soon but could not resist taking the opportunity to start that rolling with a featurette of our own on the film and a little preview set of images from the award winning film.

“Entering the woods for a simple camping trip, four university students find themselves hunted for reasons unknown. With their fates being intertwined in this place, how can they ever escape? Perspective is everything.”

With interviews already in motion, we were lucky to be able to get some of the images from the film and to be able to talk to Peter Tilley about his involvement and will be expanding on this soon in the meantime we suggest you check out their other interviews and IMDB to learn more about the film and to see the team talking about the project:

IMDB The Foreboding: Fractured.

Horror Scream Video Vault Interview.

Blazing Minds Interview.

Podcast Interview.

Frustrations Within Casting

casting woes

Being an actor or working in the creative arts has always been something of a passion led career path with many feeling they cannot get a foot in the door thanks in part to the ability to gain parts, an agent, or that elusive and somewhat necessary profile with the #1 casting directory. This has come to a head now and people are feeling pushed out with the system being called elitist, we at the lost creatives wanted to share some insights and options that are gaining ground and opening doors to people with a few added options that even at the lowest budgets, can make the dream become a reality with strategic work and a little planning.

As regular readers will know, we advocate for indie film and the creative talent behind it from the cast to the crew with our own allegiances being openly stated.

We are happy to endorse creative and commercial avenues of filmmaking with companies such as New Village Video and HOD TV being two of our favoured routes,

*It is worth noting that HOD TV has parameters that you need to match to get through their vetting process, we have this in a document and will share with those who require it through email.

In casting terms, it is not quite as simple, there are certain sites and companies that have all but cornered the market and are seen as the gold standard, this however, has been changing slowly and we want to talk about 2 of those options and are open to hearing from new services that may appear or alternative options at any time.

vShowcards: a game changing paid for service with a dedicated team who not only help and support their members with advice, but a multi-faceted company that takes on actors and crew giving them a manageable route to showcase themselves and promote their skills to multiple audiences and welcome new and established talent because the site was built by actors, there is more understanding of the challenges out there.

Casting Callback: a free at point of use service for the UK, I personally checked out the layout and actors pages to see how it works and I am impressed, the company ethos is simple, they want to the creative arts to be open to all backgrounds making it one of the best of the free services for its open platform and honest approach to the industry.

With just these 2 options under your belt, it offers up scope in particular to new entrants, and with the media market slowly getting back on its feet with global financial concerns, it shows that no matter what your background, no matter your financial status as an actor or filmmaker, there is a means to promote and market yourself and fortunately, in this content hungry age, platforms available to sell your work.

Lost Creatives will be using these platforms both for casting and for promotion over the next year and focusing on opportunities outside the mainstream with digital TV and film being our goal and of course, supporting creatives across the spectrum with the blog being open to those who need support to promote their projects.

We will be talking in our next blog about commercial avenues for short films and touching on team building for projects with small budget.