BLUEBERRY SMOOTHIE, 19min., UK, Romance Drama
Directed by Darren Lee Murphy
Karl wakes from yet another dream about his ex, Brad. When making Brad’s favourite blueberry smoothie he is confronted by the past when Brad appears and challenges Karl over the failure for Karl to move on. Memories, both good and bad, bombard Karl’s mind taunting him and making him continue to long and fantasise over what he had with Brad. I

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Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
During the pandemic I penned an outline for a feature film based on the breakup with my ex. There is a scene about him making a Blueberry Smoothie and at that time I really wasn't a fan of them and I thought I write a short about it. I knew I wanted to turn my creativity towards film - from a theatre background - and thought a good first step would be to write a short and see if it's any good and see how that goes. From my own emotional experiences during the breakup and withdrawal process I was able to tap into my real life experiences and write the film. I didn't know at the time if I actually wanted to make it, let alone play the lead role and direct the film. I approached Anto Cassu and Gary Dedman for ideas on music for the film and they both donated such perfect songs to the project. It's moments like these that inspire me to want to make more films.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It took me around six months to write and tweak the script to a place I felt happy to shoot. The shoot itself was two full days and two half days then the editing. I loved the whole collaborative approach to making Blueberry.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Hopeful and inspiring

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
As a first time filmmaker, there were many. I have learnt so much making this film and I cannot wait to get started on my next one. I plan to shoot two more shorts that my friend Sharon and I have written together. Then it's time to make my debut feature, Happy Camper.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Sick to my stomach! Joking aside, I'm proud of the finished product and very pleased other people, people who have never met me, like my work.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
When I was three I went to the cinema for the first time to see Star Wars - A New Hope. I think it was then that I wanted to be in film initially as an actor and then who knows. I never thought I'd be writing and directing my own work.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Star Wars most probably.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
I think you're already doing a great job. If there is something we could all use is some financial help with our next projects. That would be nice.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
It's very easy to use. I use it all the time now.

10. What is your favorite meal?
A traditionally British vegetarian roast dinner with crispy potatoes and cauliflower cheese.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I am about to start preproduction on two shorts - Shift and Glitch. I am finishing a treatment for my debut feature - Happy Camper. And outlining the next three.