MARION SAUVEBOIS meets a group putting talents in focus

FILMMAKERS have been given a voice and a chance to hone their talents, thanks to a fresh new group of like-minded artists – Swindon Independent Film.

SIF was founded in September last year after Oliver Woodward put out a message to more than 1,000 people on Facebook. The response was overwhelming.

“He’d come to the conclusion that Swindon had many film practitioners but there was no unification between them.

“There were a lot of small businesses, production companies, self-employed individuals, as well as all those studying film or media in local schools and colleges. So he put out the call,” said group co-ordinator Jake Blandford.

“We want to generate an interest in film and filmmaking in Swindon and the surrounding areas.

“In part it’s to give those of us looking to get into the industry local connections and opportunities to collaborate on a larger, easier scale. But it’s also to offer film to people who have an interest or curiosity about it and but haven’t had the opportunity to do so.”

He added: “We’ve got a multitude of people from different backgrounds and disciplines with experience ranging from veterans to those who have never done it before.

“We’re also really interested in getting more writers and actors involved, so if there’s anyone out there that appeals to, by all means come along.”

Soon after forming, SIF shot its first collaborative short, Modulation, written and directed by Oliver, who acts as the group’s production co-ordinator.

It is set to be showcased on the 2015 festival circuit.

Martin Parry, one of SIF’s founding members, added: “There is a lot of fun to be had here. Film is hard work but the rewards are great.

“I’ve met so many people who’ve said: ‘I would’ve liked to make this or have written that, but I didn’t know how to get started’. The beauty of SIF is that you don’t have to hit that roadblock.”

For its latest project, SIF threw down the gauntlet to creative minds far and wide, issuing the Micro-Shorts Challenge. The task is to make a short film - no longer than 30 seconds – based on one of five pre-chosen sentences.

“The group wanted to start a simple project that all members could take part in,” said Jake. “There is no limit to how this can be approached and we are really eager to see the finished results.”

SIF meets every other Wednesday at the Beehive on Prospect Hill at 7.30pm.