Private Project

Blame

After the announcement of the first lockdown in the UK, step-siblings Elijah and Harriet find themselves stuck together. Through the torment of living together, they rediscover their strained relationship throughout childhood, learning to overcome their differences.

  • Jack Marshall
    Director
  • David Vivian Johnson
    Writer
  • Julia Munrow
    Writer
  • Chris Fernandez
    Producer
  • Jack Marshall
    Producer
  • David Vivian Johnson
    Key Cast
    "Elijah"
  • Julia Munrow
    Key Cast
    "Harriet"
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Drama, Comedy
  • Runtime:
    32 minutes 30 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 28, 2022
  • Production Budget:
    960 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United Kingdom
  • Country of Filming:
    United Kingdom
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, Arri Alexa, Sony A7iii
  • Aspect Ratio:
    1.85:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - University of Westminster
Director Biography - Jack Marshall

Jack Marshall is a freelance director & writer based in London. After graduating from university, Jack is now working in the film and television industry. Jack is also one of the founding members of JumpStart Pictures and conceived the concept for the Kodak Student Commercial Award-winning advert, “The Mattress Man”.

Jack enjoyed directing Blame and collaborating with the crew. Filming during a heatwave is never fun, but Blame was a blast from start to finish.

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Director Statement

For me, Blame explores the relationship between two step-siblings and the strain the pandemic puts on their already withering relationship. Although many found themselves reconnecting with family over lockdown, for some, it was far harder, and I wanted to focus on that aspect specifically. Ultimately, exploring the story of two characters that are trying hard to connect but can’t quite get there. I enjoy delving into stories where characters are isolated, and the humour that derives from intense living situations.

Furthermore, whilst exploring the idea of race, I felt I could bring a relatable perspective on white ignorance through the character of Harriet and her clumsily trying to relate to Elijah. Moreover, collaborating both with our producer, Chris, and our writer, David, helped strike a balance between how the humour of Harriet's ignorance contrasts against the frustration of Elijah's experience as a person of colour.