Radlett resident and film producer Jason Cook (pictured left) has proved that big dreams can be achieved in small villages.
The producer’s latest work, titled Cookster: The Darkest Days, was recently nominated at the Cannes Film Awards.
The gritty crime drama, written and produced by Jason, is based on his own personal struggle with dyslexia and follows his story of becoming involved in gang violence.
Nominated for the Indie Feature Film Award, this marks a huge career milestone for the local filmmaker, whose journey has been anything but straightforward.
Though it was filmed in just 18 days, it took seven months of hard work to edit and finish the project before it was released on Amazon Prime Video. Scenes were shot in Radlett, Elstree and Borehamwood, and it stars Coronation Street actress Tracy Shaw alongside Harry Potter actor Nick Moran.
Speaking to RADLETTnews, Jason said: “I feel grateful I was given the chance to tell my story. I had the chance to film in England instead of America and keep it in the town I grew up in, with locals also being part of the film and giving others the opportunity to be in the film.”
Whispers of a second movie are currently in the works. Without revealing too much, the storyline focuses on a young girl facing domestic violence within the music industry.
Jason said: “I’m feeling blessed as it took 20 years to be able to get to this point and raise the funds. It’s a team effort from all who were involved, even down to the driver, all the crew and the cast, those behind the scenes, local businesses, and support from the council’s mayor.”
Jason started writing when he was in prison and has now published seven books.
You can watch the film at www.shorturl.at/i0LM2
Congratulations you didn’t give up! Excellent film. Tough story especially as it is true. You did well to survive you are truly blessed. The Lord watched over you. Looking forward to your next film Jason.