While The Stork may be a short film, its impact has proved to be significant, as it takes flight at global festivals.
The action-packed film was shot on location around Pinner, and local residents may be able to spot parts of the village’s familiar streets on the screen.
A character-driven comedy, the film follows an unsuccessful attempt at a highly important delivery. This sets the bewildered courier and the recipient’s parents off on a quirky mission to replace the order.
The film’s uniqueness is amplified by an exciting cast, featuring the likes of Siobhan Finneran of Happy Valley and Benidorm, Tom Rosenthal of Friday Night Dinner and Plebs, and Paul Chahidi of Twelfth Night and This England.
Produced by Broadside Films, the film originally began as a passion project. In 2023, writer Ronan McCabe approached the company with his script.
Pinner News caught up with Rhydian Lewis from Broadside Films, who produced the film, to discuss the project.
He said: “We weren’t selected for funding initially, but the story really resonated with me and we wanted to get it done, whether self-funded or with grants.”
The film was shot in just two days, with around 30 staff supporting the three cast members.
Rhydian said: “We filmed it in July 2024 during two intense and very hot days. They were two of the hottest days of the year at the time.
“My role on set was ensuring production ran smoothly. We had a small budget, so we had to be a bit more hands-on, and at times I acted as a runner and caterer.
“The film wouldn’t have been possible without the extra work of Ronan the writer and Stephen Gallacher the director.”
Residents may recall seeing a white van speeding around corners at the time of filming, but there was no cause for concern as it was only Rhydian catching the opening scenes.
Rhydian remembered: “At first, it felt a little intrusive with the van, camera and boom mic, but it was fun.”
As every film fanatic knows, once filming wraps, there is a lot of work behind the scenes to get the project over the line – and that was one of Rhydian’s jobs before the film was finally finished on Tuesday, December 23.
Almost immediately, the film began screening to audiences.
Rhydian explained: “We hit the festival circuit straight away and have submitted to over 100 festivals worldwide. We are currently seven months into a 15-month stint.
“It feels validating as with short films, you never know if you are going to get a hit. Comedy is so subjective, especially when it covers topics like in The Stork.”
For Broadside Films, The Stork has become a dream realised. Already, awards have included Best Costume/Props at the Pigeon Laughs Festival and Best Comedy at the Milano Indie Movie Awards, while Siobhan was named Best Actress by Loco London.
Ronan and Stephen, who wrote and directed the film, attended the Loco London Comedy Film Festival, where praise for the film included: “The acting, writing and design all fall into hilarious and magnificent harmony. A delight to watch.
“It deserves success because of its funny original premise and for its quick and brilliant dialogue.”
When the festival run wraps, The Stork will be available via YouTube and Vimeo. Until then, audiences can catch it at festivals around the UK and beyond.
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