Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Impactful Short Drama "Finding My Feet"

During my time at Branded Studios, I had the privilege of working on a wide array of projects, each bringing its unique challenges and rewards. One such project is the poignant short drama "Finding My Feet." This five-minute piece, starring Olly Bassi as Simon, Sarah Jane Honeywell as Kate, and Sir Graham Cole as their lawyer, serves as a compelling teaser trailer for a potential full-length film. It tells the tragic and inspiring story of Simon Sansome, whose life was upended by a routine chiropractor visit.

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The team filming Olly Bassi and Sarah Jane Honeywell

The Story: A Journey of Tragedy and Triumph

"Finding My Feet" encapsulates the harrowing experience of Simon and his wife Kate. A routine chiropractor visit leads to a devastating mistake, leaving Simon with a crushed spine and a rare condition called Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES). The narrative follows Simon's struggle to reclaim his life, fight for his job, and challenge the NHS for their failure to diagnose him appropriately. This short drama is more than just a teaser; it’s a powerful exploration of resilience, justice, and the human spirit.

My Roles: Boom Operator and Editor

My involvement in "Finding My Feet" was multifaceted, requiring both technical precision and creative vision. I served as the boom operator during production and took on the crucial role of editor in post-production.

As a Boom Operator:

Capturing high-quality audio is paramount in a drama piece, where dialogue and sound convey much of the emotion and story. Ensuring clear, crisp audio required careful attention to microphone placement and sensitivity to the actors' performances. Working closely with the sound team, we aimed to capture the authenticity of each scene, making the audience feel every moment of the journey.

As an Editor:

Editing "Finding My Feet" was a deeply engaging process. The challenge was to distill a complex and emotional story into a five-minute format without losing its essence. Here’s how I approached it:

• Storytelling Through Pacing: Balancing the narrative’s pace was critical. I aimed to maintain a rhythm that conveyed urgency and emotional depth, ensuring each moment had the intended impact.

• Seamless Transitions: Given the short runtime, smooth transitions were essential to keep the story coherent and engaging. I focused on creating a seamless flow between scenes, enhancing the viewers' connection to the characters and their plight.

• Emotional Resonance: The heart of "Finding My Feet" lies in its emotional resonance. Through careful selection of shots, music, and sound design, I worked to amplify the emotional weight of Simon’s struggle and triumph.

The Cast: Bringing Characters to Life

The cast of "Finding My Feet" delivered outstanding performances that brought authenticity and depth to the story.

• Olly Bassi as Simon: Olly’s portrayal of Simon captured the character’s vulnerability and strength, making the audience empathize with his ordeal.
  

• Sarah Jane Honeywell as Kate: Sarah’s performance as Kate provided a poignant counterbalance to Simon’s struggle, showcasing the emotional toll on both individuals.

• Sir Graham Cole as the Lawyer: Sir Graham Cole’s portrayal added gravitas and credibility, embodying the legal battle Simon faces against the NHS.

The team filming Olly Bassi and Sir Graham Cole

The Impact: A Teaser for Greater Things

"Finding My Feet" was designed as a teaser to showcase the potential of a full-length film. The short piece not only introduces audiences to an incredible story but also highlights the broader issues of medical negligence and the fight for justice.

Conclusion

Working on "Finding My Feet" was a remarkable experience that combined technical skill, creative storytelling, and emotional depth. As the boom operator and editor, I was honored to help bring this powerful story to life. The short drama serves as a testament to human resilience and the ongoing fight for justice, leaving audiences eager for more.