Safe House
Two down on their luck criminals are hired to carry out a jewellery heist by the handsome and manipulative Harry Hart. It was supposed to be a simple in and out job, but nothing is ever that easy; the seemingly simple heist takes a turn for the worst as they narrowly escape with their lives, tensions rise, and it becomes clear that someone isn't telling the truth. not everyone will make it out of the safe house alive.
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Grant Anthony BarkerDirectorBench Mates, A Life Changed
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Grant Anthony BarkerWriter
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Grant Anthony BarkerProducer
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Lee HamptonEditorOne Wrong Move, Absolution, Fighting Heart
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Reece LambertDirector Of PhotographyThe Projectionist
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Rio SwattonSFX ArtistThe Projectionist
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Gary MutchMusic
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Laura FinnemoreKey Cast"Annie Baker "
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Adam WadgeKey Cast"Harry Hart"
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Grant BarkerKey Cast"Ian Sanders"
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Bexs BarlowKey Cast"DCI Andrews"
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Marina ScandurraKey Cast"Julia Reynolds"
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Jasmine ChiswellKey Cast"Police Officer VO"
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Diane WebbKey Cast"Police Officer VO 2#"
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Lydia DeneyKey Cast"Police Officer VO 3#"
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Shakiah JohnsonKey Cast"Police Officer VO 4#"
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Armesha ShakuraKey Cast"Police Officer VO 5#"
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Project Type:Short
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Genres:Drama, Action, Thriller
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Runtime:18 minutes 21 seconds
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Completion Date:November 1, 2023
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Production Budget:400 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:Sony A7III - 35MM, 80MM
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Aspect Ratio:16:9
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:Yes
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Student Project:No
In the ever-evolving world of filmmaking, there emerge individuals whose journeys are as compelling as the stories they craft on screen. Meet Grant Barker, a first-time filmmaker who embarked on an extraordinary odyssey from the stage to the director's chair, with a remarkable two-year journey culminating in the creation of the captivating and emotionally charged film, "Safe House."
Born with a passion for storytelling, Grant initially found his calling in the world of acting. His magnetic presence and undeniable talent propelled him into the spotlight, where he dazzled audiences with his performances on both stage and screen. But little did he know that his journey would take an unexpected and inspiring turn.
It was while immersed in the world of acting that Grant began to recognize his deep fascination with the art of filmmaking. He found himself increasingly drawn to the intricate choreography behind the camera, the interplay of light and shadow, and the ability to orchestrate emotions and narratives in a unique and powerful way. This newfound passion set Grant on a path of exploration and self-discovery, leading him to question his identity as an artist and his place in the industry.
His transformation from actor to filmmaker was marked by years of dedication and hard work. He immersed himself in film theory, honed his skills in screenwriting, and learned the craft of cinematography, editing, and directing. Every moment spent on set, every film studied, and every frame captured became a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal.
"Safe House," Grant's debut directorial venture, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the art of storytelling through film. This poignant and emotionally charged piece of cinema explores the complexities of human relationships, the triumph of the human spirit, and the undeniable power of redemption. It is a labour of love that spanned two transformative years, during which Grant poured his heart and soul into every frame, every line of dialogue, and every character.
The journey of making "Safe House" was filled with trials and triumphs, moments of self-doubt, and ultimate self-discovery. Grant worked tirelessly to assemble a dedicated and passionate crew who shared his vision. The film is a testament to his unwavering belief in the power of storytelling to touch the hearts and minds of people from all walks of life.
As Grant steps into the limelight as a first-time filmmaker, he carries with him the valuable experiences of his acting career and the lessons he learned in the shadows of the film industry. "Safe House" is more than just a movie; it's a culmination of years of growth, transformation, and artistic evolution. With a fresh perspective, an unrelenting commitment to his craft, and a profound understanding of human emotions, Grant is poised to make a lasting impact on the world of cinema.
In a world that is constantly seeking authentic and heartfelt narratives, Grant is a rising star whose journey from the stage to behind the lens has only just begun. His story is one of artistic evolution, passion, and the unwavering pursuit of a dream. As you watch "Safe House," you will not only witness a powerful story unfold on screen but also the birth of a promising new voice in filmmaking. Grant is a name to remember, a director to watch, and an artist who is poised to shape the future of cinema with his unique vision and profound storytelling.
"Safe House" is a thrilling and relentless exploration of the human psyche when pushed to its limits, a heart-pounding journey through the shadows of morality, and a stark reminder that the line between good and bad can blur in the most unexpected ways. This film has been a passion project, an opportunity to delve into the complexities of the criminal world and the intricate interplay of trust, betrayal, and survival.
The inception of "Safe House" was driven by the desire to craft a narrative that defies conventional expectations, offering a fresh perspective on the heist genre. At its core, this film is a character-driven story, where the criminals are not simply antagonists but individuals with their own motives, fears, and vulnerabilities. The intention was to bring depth to characters who often find themselves stereotyped as one-dimensional, and to explore their intricate relationships.
The plot unfolds in the high-stakes world of a jewellery heist, orchestrated by the enigmatic and manipulative Harry Hart. As the characters embark on what should be a straightforward mission, the audience is thrust into a nail-biting narrative where nothing is as it seems. The heist quickly unravels, revealing a web of deception, hidden agendas, and moral dilemmas.
"Safe House" is a commentary on the human capacity for deception and the blurring of lines between right and wrong. It serves as a reminder that in the direst of situations, survival instincts can lead individuals to question their own morality. The characters are pushed to the edge, and as tensions rise, the film becomes an exploration of how far one is willing to go to protect themselves and those they care about.
The visual language of "Safe House" is intentionally designed to create an atmosphere of tension and suspense. The cinematography and lighting accentuate the characters' inner conflicts, using shadows and contrasts to mirror their moral ambiguity. The film's aesthetics serve to immerse the audience in the morally grey world of the characters.
As a director, my aim was to challenge the audience's perceptions of right and wrong, and to offer a visceral experience that would keep them on the edge of their seats. The cast and crew poured their hearts into bringing this narrative to life, delivering authentic and captivating performances that reflect the complexity of the characters.
"Safe House" is a relentless and thrilling ride that seeks to provoke thought, challenge assumptions, and entertain. It is a story that forces us to question the limits of our own morality and the choices we might make when pushed to our breaking points. The film offers no easy answers, only a vivid portrayal of the choices people face when their lives hang in the balance.
In a world where shades of grey often overshadow the black and white, "Safe House" invites the audience to explore the murky terrain of human nature, and to consider the consequences of our actions when driven by fear, desperation, and the fight for survival. This is a cinematic journey that will keep viewers guessing until the final, tension-filled moments, leaving them with a profound sense of introspection and an unforgettable cinematic experience.