Rochene Johnston
While on work experience at the University of Derby Rochene went along to the filming of short story Dolls. Read her write up from the day.
Picture taken by Rochene Johnston
Film Dolls produced and filmed at Derby's new Markeaton Street site
Being a part of Derby University never has its dull moments as today I was sent to do some snooping (ahem, work) on the set of international short film rival Dolls.
The film is being captured on the University's new £40,000 RED digital camera. Such equipment has never before been available at a university and is usually used on the set of big budget Hollywood blockbusters.
The two-minute short stars actors Anna Tolputt - who you may recognise from Run Fat Boy Run and Confetti - and Derby born up and coming star Dean Whatton who has previously appeared in shows like Little Britain and has just landed a role in the final Harry Potter film The Deathly Hallows.
The film depicts an eerie, borderline incestuous, relationship between a young brother and sister, which is set around a dolls house in their Victorian playroom.
University production lecturer Kelly Holmes is the method behind the madness that is Dolls and has not only enlisted the help of reputable actors but has also got Outpost director Steve Barker and Outpost director of photography Gavin Struthers on board the production team.
Dolls will be completed later this year and is due to be screened early 2010.
The promising production is tipped to give other short film rivalries a run for their money.
Some may find the film perverse, enchanting or perhaps just plain weird. One thing is for certain though, Dolls has opened a window of opportunity for the university and aspiring student film makers.
Rochene Johnston
