I'll just Have Cats.
I'll just have cats documentary follows 21-year-old Kay Proctor as she delves into Britain’s evolving views on queer parenthood and questions whether she even wants children herself. Through conversations with queer parents and professionals, Kay confronts complex questions about her future. This award-winning documentary, recognised with multiple Royal Television Society Student Awards, offers a candid exploration of family, identity, and choice in modern Britain.
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Kay ProctorDirector
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Katie StaceyProducer
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Megan DaviesDirector of Cinematography
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Kay ProctorAdditional Footage
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Will ChappleSound
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Morris HaynesEditor
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Josh RoweComposer
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Project Type:Documentary
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Runtime:12 minutes 13 seconds
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Completion Date:June 8, 2023
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Production Budget:1,200 GBP
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Country of Origin:United Kingdom
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Country of Filming:United Kingdom
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Language:English
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Shooting Format:Digital, 35mm, Blackmagic pocket
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Aspect Ratio:16:9
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:No
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Student Project:Yes - University of Gloucestershire
Kay Proctor is a director and documentary filmmaker who graduated with her Film Production degree in winter 2023. Originally from Surrey and raised in Somerset, Kay developed a passion for storytelling with a focus on improving LGBTQ+ representation in film and TV. In her documentary I'll Just Have Cats, she courageously embraced her sexuality, reflecting on the challenges of growing up in an environment where expressing it felt uncertain. Kay is committed to amplifying unique voices and stories that deserve a lasting place in our society.
Directing and participating in this documentary has been a life-changing experience for me, as the subject matter is deeply personal. The impact it has had on me is unforgettable, and my hope is that it helps others as well. My goal for this project was not only to provide positive representation of what it means to be a British lesbian and explore the journey of becoming a mother, through the voices of our authentic interviewees, but also to challenge and debunk the stigma surrounding lesbian representation. I wanted to show that it's okay to have questions and be curious, but to approach these topics with kindness and respect.
As LGBTQ+ representation in film and TV slowly progresses, I directed this documentary with a light-hearted tone to strike a balance between entertainment, education, and realism, making it accessible not just to the LGBTQ+ community, but to a wider audience.
Through this project, I’ve found my voice, style, and passion for storytelling, along with a deeper understanding of the importance of representation. I would have loved to include more voices, expanding the representation of British lesbian experiences across the UK. Over 20 couples and parents expressed interest in participating, but due to scheduling, budget, and travel limitations, I selected interviewees from four locations: Cheltenham, Manchester, Warrington, and Cardiff.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue exploring powerful, untold stories through documentary filmmaking. My hope is to create more inclusive, thought-provoking work that shines a light on underrepresented voices, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. With each new project, I strive to bring people together, challenge perceptions, and inspire positive change, creating a future where everyone’s story has a place to be heard.