My name is Charlotte, I am a filmmaker from Paisley, Scotland and I would like to reach out to connect with you in regards to my next short film project EYES DOWN. The film is a four minute short drama piece which follows Mary, a trans woman who has come to terms with her true identity late in life, on her maiden voyage on the Glasgow Subway System. Mary experiences the fear and intimidation you can experience when you choose to bare your true self to the world. But Mary also realises that it just takes one small moment of connection to give you the strength and courage to hold your head up high and carry on.
We are set to shoot the film in early August this year and would like to reach out to The Beaumont Society for a number of reasons. First and foremost, we are struggling to cast our principal cast member Mary. There is an extreme lack of representation of trans women, especially those in the 50+ age range, but I know that there are many people out there who could fulfil this role however unfortunately the routes and channels I have tried so far have not been able to connect me with those women. I have reached out to TransAct who have spread the open call out on their channels however we have had little response. We wondered if this is something that you had any opportunity to assist with either through connected networks or individuals that you may be in contact with?
Secondly, we are very much hoping to connect further with the Scottish trans community to ensure that our project is authentic, organic and creates the desired representation that we would like to achieve. As a trans ally, I want to listen and learn from those whose experiences are similar to those as our main character to ensure that real stories are being told. With The Beaumont Society's help and support, it would be wonderful to connect with any networks that you may feel will help our endeavour.
And finally, we are currently in negotiations with SPT to secure the filming location for the script. We are highly aware of the risk and safety precautions which are involved in filming in such a sensitive location. As an Assistant Location Manager, my experience of filming in functioning locations such as these is extremely high.
My DOP Simon Waldock is a highly experienced self-shooting DOP who shoots on ARRI ALEXA format and has filmed projects for large companies such as Jo Malone, Coca-Cola and Virgin, to name a few. Simon is adept at creating beautiful visuals and telling heartfelt stories with little equipment and crew. And our Producer, Sophie Chater is an up and coming producer currently working for STV who is continuing on her own path of narrative filmmaking.
If anyone can help, or knows anyone who can help, please contact Jane Hamlin: jane@beaumontsociety.org.uk
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Hi Jane (or is it Charlotte)… I’m useless with tech, so I’m not sure where this reply is heading. Not sure if I’m able to help, I’m 63 yrs old with little acting experience. However, my first wife was a drama teacher and I was a musician for some productions at the Everyman Theatre in the 1970s. Although my skills may be limited, my experience of coming to terms with being trans late in life may compensate to some degree. I’m based in Liverpool, but am prepared to travel. Let me know if I can help in any way.
Now young Kay,
I have already contacted Charlotte in regards to playing the part. It looks like she will be spoilt for choice. There is no speaking, just lots of looking at the floor: the piece is called “Eyes Down” and no, it has nothing to do with bingo.
My only short fall is that the part requires hairy arms and the Good Lord never saw fit to carpet my body with much fur.
May the best sexy girl win!!!
Sophie.xx
Oh dear, Sophie… I fear you’ll win hands down! However… I do have to shave my arms, but I don’t relish the thought of letting the hairs grow! If the criteria is for loveliness, the part will be yours. If, however, the part requires less than feminine arms, I may have the advantage! Whatever, I won’t hold a grudge against you. ( Boo hoo!)
Have a great weekend… much love.
Kay xxxxx
My darling, we are both lovely. There is however one tiny point that seems to have passed us both by, namely that it will be filmed in Glasgow!!
Thst said, I have already considered my stage name , and the problem is that there is already a Sophie Scarf, she is American and has appeared in a few films. I would have to call myself Sophie Anne Scarfe. It has a nice ring to it.
Much love to my thespian rival. xxx
Sophie-Anne? That suits you very well my dear. You are right… Glasgow is a long way, particularly for yourself. Let’s see what happens… if you feel a bit daunted, maybe we could have an adventure as travelling companions… two sophisticated ladies on a train! Ha… hope all’s well. Much love to my elegant friend xxx
You sound great for the part