After many setbacks and scheduling conflicts, I am pleased to announce the start of live-action filming for my long-delayed sci-fi short / music video concept – ORPHAN. Initially approached by local band Dawn of Elysium for a simple lyric video, the scope of the project soon demanded greater ambition. A mini-movie invoking a grim future of urban isolation, alternate timelines, and the search for belonging.

The lead role is played by Russian-born ballerina and ice skater, Aida Knight. As the eponymous Orphan, she brings an emotional depth and sincerity to the role that exceeds all expectations. With willingness to improvise, experiment, and embrace the physicality of the story, Aida’s presence is a vital foundation towards making it all happen. I am thrilled to have her on board.

The first batch of exterior shots are already in the can, spliced together with previously-shot band footage in an assembly cut. Filming took place at Allen Brickworks near Halifax, a site lauded previously as the “Chernobyl of the North” and ideal for such cyberpunk shenanigans. Overgrown as it is, keying out “Nature’s Greenscreen” has been a worthy challenge, replacing foliage with Brutalist backdrops more suited to the oppressive dystopia of the story. Initial effects work has been far more successful than anticipated, with placeholders to be updated accordingly and graded into the final cut.

With able Production Assistance and on-set advice from video game artist Helen Richardson; I am grateful beyond measure to gather a passionate, enthusiastic creative crew to bring this project to fruition – and hopefully many more to come.

There is no Tomorrow, so we do what we will Today.