I took my first steps into filmmaking while at University in 2000. I had been writing stories ever since I was young, however, it was when I started writing my first book that I realised all my ideas were based on visual images. I also started contemplating following my ideas through from initial conception to visualisation. So, I tested writer/directing with a low-budget film and the experience persuaded me to dedicate myself to this career.
I made several short films for four years and then in 2004 I shot my first low budget feature film, The Jigsaw of Life. The film was completed in 2005 and premiered at the Phoenix Picture House Cinema in Oxford. Although The Jigsaw of Life was not of the quality required to secure distribution, I was able to draw an immense amount of knowledge from the whole experience and it helped prepare me to further myself on more ambitious projects.
Since working on Jigsaw I have strived to learn and develop my skills and knowledge in every aspect, from story design to shot selection. I have read books, reflected on what was good and bad about Jigsaw, and analysed other films. I have attended a number of course, including Raindance courses, a UK Film Council Screenwriting course and a Producing course. In 2009 I wrote and shot a short film, Perception, to test ideas and this was premiered at the London Independent Film Festival on 18th April 2010.
I now feel in a completely new place and ready to make a film worthy of an audience. I also now feel more focussed on creating a great cinematic vision than I ever previously have been. In the past I was primarily concerned with the story. Now, I am merging my stories with visionary images. It is essential that my next film is a major step forward for me and showcases exactly what I can do.
At present I am in post-production on my second feature film, Silent Terror. I will be marketing and self-distributing the film myself and am aiming for a September 2010 release. I am also developing my third feature film, a comedy detective story. Follow all the updates from the development of Silent Terror and my new film on my McDermott Movies Facebook group.
Please read my blog and follow me on my filmmaking journey.