Filming ‘True Calling’
I have just spent three fantastic weeks working on a new feature length film called, ‘True Calling’.
Written, directed, and filmed by Erik Knudsen of One Day Films, the film is due for release in 2021 and follows the story of Josh Joseph, a successful young government minister who is thinking fondly of his past, questioning his present, and whose sudden rash actions could have serious consequences for his future.
Storyboard extract from ‘True Calling’.
As the crew was kept to a small number of people, I had several main roles on the film: Assistant Director and Camera Assistant. Besides those roles, I was also busy documenting behind the scenes in order to produce a short ‘making of’ documentary that will also be ready next year.
All of the filming took place outdoors in the Lancashire and Yorkshire countryside and so we were at the mercy of the British weather, but fortunately, we only had to reschedule one shoot day during the whole period. When you’re up at the crack of dawn to film in the countryside, you really begin to appreciate how lucky we are to have such places on our doorstep and notice the variety of wildlife around. I can’t say I’ll miss the midges though!
The cast and crew were great to work with and I hope that there will be an opportunity for us to work together again on other projects. Not only was everyone fun and pleasant to be around, but their professionalism and dedication to getting the best results possible was clear to see on every single day of the shoot. It made me feel inspired as a filmmaker to be around such lovely, talented people.
Reviewing a take with the Director, Erik Knudsen, whilst on location in Lancashire.
Drinking Yorkshire Tea in a Yorkshire river.
As part of my role as Camera Assistant, I was able to learn and practice a new skill for me - focus pulling - which I began to get the hang of and it was great to play back the clips and see the result of my efforts. Another first for me was wearing a pair of fishing waders as we had to wade into the middle of the river so we could get some really interesting shots for several pivotal scenes in the film. These won’t be gaining a permanent place in my wardrobe, but I know that the shots are going to look great in the film so it was definitely worth the effort of wading out there.
Whilst the filming is over, there is of course a lot of work still to be done. Erik has begun going through the rushes, syncing sound, and working on the edit. I can’t wait to see the finished film, but in the meantime, there is still some behind the scenes filming for me to undertake as I continue to follow the post-production process and sit down with Erik to interview him about how he has brought his script to life.
Director, Erik Knudsen, discusses a scene with actors, David Smith and Eliza Marsland, who play the roles of JJ and Maddy.
I find myself identifying a lot with JJ and Maddy, the two main characters in the film, who are a similar age to me. It’s taken me a while to figure out what path I want to take in my life and no doubt there are still some crossroads ahead. I’ve questioned past decisions, dwelled on lost opportunities, and tried different jobs and experiences in the hope of finding my true calling. In my thirties, I’ve found a passion for filmmaking and I now understand that all those past experiences and decisions have brought me to this point. They are part of my identity as a person and as a filmmaker and will no doubt play a part in shaping the films I make.
Let’s enjoy all the detours that life offers us.
