On The Line

Alderney, UK. 1964. A telephone operator ends up being the pivotal piece of a drama unfurling which puts professional integrity, and relationships, to the test.

  • Oliver Pearn
    Director
  • Oliver Pearn
    Writer
  • Oliver Pearn
    Producer
  • Nicola Quilter
    Producer
  • Victoria Lucie
    Key Cast
    "Agnes"
    The Mousetrap
  • Dame Harriet Walter
    Key Cast
    "Shirley"
    Silo, Succession
  • Royce Pierreson
    Key Cast
    "Harold"
    The Witcher
  • Matthew Collings
    Composer
    Icelandic Academy of Arts (Iceland, 2009)
  • Jonathan Nicol
    Director of Photography
  • Project Type:
    Feature
  • Genres:
    Thriller
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 15 minutes
  • Country of Origin:
    United Kingdom
  • Country of Filming:
    United Kingdom
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, RED, 4K
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Newport Beach Film Festival
    California
    United States
    October 11, 2023
    Official Selection
  • Cinequest Film Festival
    California
    United States
    August 15, 2023
    US Premiere
    Official Selection
  • Richmond International
    Richmond, Virginia
    September 30, 2023
    Virginia
    Nominated For Best Feature
  • Nòt Film Fest
    santarcangelo di romagna
    Italy
    August 27, 2023
    Italy Premiere
    Nominated for Best Feature
  • Ramsgate International Film Festival (BIFA Qualifying)
    Ramsgate
    United Kingdom
    June 22, 2023
    Best Director, Best Actress
  • Carmarthen Bay Film Festival
    Wales
    United Kingdom
    May 15, 2023
    UK Premiere
    Nominated for Best Feature
  • GALACTICAT X Fantastic & Terror
    Spain
    June 26, 2023
    Spanish Premiere
    Best Actress
  • Rising Sun International Film Festival

    Japan
    November 5, 2023
    JAPAN PREMIERE
    Official Selection
  • International Sound & Film Music Festival

    BEST SCORE - SPECIAL MENTION
Distribution Information
  • Movie House Entertainment
    Sales Agent
    Country: Worldwide
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography - Oliver Pearn

25 years old, British, Writer/Director : Oliver Pearn

Oliver, was always fascinated by storytelling's power to connect people. He honed his skills in copywriting at an international healthcare charity and later worked on microbudget independent horror features. Oliver has worked on high-profile productions, including "Masters of the Air," "Napoleon," and "Rings of Power," but it is his most recent project, "On The Line," that best showcases his talent and vision. Oliver has been made a BAFTA Connect Member in recognition of his talent.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I knew the SMALLER ‘On The Line’ was in terms of locations and cast, and the BIGGER the story and characterisation - the better it’s chance of getting into production. It is shot entirely in one room, with one actor onscreen.

In order to create a contemplative atmosphere that draw’s focus and immerses you in the character and surroundings. I used long takes, some lasting several minutes or even longer. The uninterrupted shots demand the viewers’ attention, as you are not distracted by frequent cuts. This intensifies the emotional impact and enhances the storytelling.

The profession of the switchboard operator, a vital link connecting individuals, is now consigned to history's archives. Today, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming various industries and professions. Here, in 1964 against a backdrop of societal change – a new international phone line – attitudes to female roles and career ambitions swirl.

Inspiration came from working at an international healthcare charity, I was moved by people’s life experience, and at this time someone close to me took their life. I created this film in the hope that people feel able to reach out for help without fear or judgement.