Private Project

This One’s On Me

Jude seems like an average young man in his early 20’s but a lot more is happening under the surface. One evening when he returns home he finds his mother has fallen victim to his drunken father’s abuse once again. With the support of a local unsung hero he must decide what kind of man he wants to become.

  • Zoë Theil
    Director
  • Zoë Theil
    Writer
  • Rory McIntyre
    Writer
  • Samuel Levick
    Producer
  • Samuel Timson
    Producer
  • Archie Relf
    Director of Photography
  • Rory McIntyre
    Art Director
  • Charley Gillingwater
    Key Cast
    "Jude"
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Drama, Period, Socio-realism
  • Runtime:
    10 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    August 26, 2022
  • Production Budget:
    1,500 GBP
  • Country of Origin:
    United Kingdom
  • Country of Filming:
    United Kingdom
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, RED
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Falmouth University
Director Biography - Zoë Theil

An English/Dutch filmmaker with a passion for telling stories about social issues.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I chose to direct this film because even after reading the first script draft I had a strong attachment to this story. I've witnessed young men struggle with the societal pressures placed on them and in turn has greatly affected the people they have developed into. The topic of men's mental health has only recently become a prominent one, but for so long before this there was a strong ideology that men shouldn’t express their very human emotions and the impact has been extremely harmful. With this film I want to shed light on how the toxic masculinity that exists within our society can be detrimental to young men particularly if they don’t have someone demonstrating how they should deal with these emotions. It will convey the importance of strong role models, who have chosen to step out of this toxic cycle in order to work towards a healthier future.

In terms of visual and emotional value, I want the audience to feel as though they have been transported back to 1967, through the use of iconic 60’s clothing pieces and a recognisable style of music. The film is very character driven and I would love for everyone to feel like they have a connection with at least one of the characters. The style of the acting is key for this film and will be grounded in realism and authenticity. The audience will feel as if they are sitting in the pub watching a group of friends next to them.

My overall biggest wish for the film is for it to make people feel seen, heard and understood. To show how much has changed already and how we can continue this movement in order to prove to young people that there is a way to break away from the toxic societal expectations placed upon them.