What was your first impression when you get an information that your film had won at our festival? How did you celebrate this successful event?
To be honest I couldn't believe it, I was sat next to one of the lead actors so we just gave each other a big hug and said well done, as we both felt each other's contribution was much more important than our own!
Could you describe the process of creating your film and what challenges you had to overcome during the shooting?
Like any production we had our fair share of logistical problems and last-minute disasters, but the crew were fantastic and always on-hand to solve any problems. I expected I would find the process of directing a narrative difficult , as all of my previous experience had been in directing commercials. But actually, the two lead actors stepped into their roles so perfectly that I don't think I gave any performance notes throughout the entire production. So basically, their skill & passion made my life very easy!
What message is your film trying to convey to the audience?
For me, this film is really about sacrifice, and honouring the sacrifices of those that've come before. In the same way the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier honours everyone who gave their lives in war, I hope that by telling one specific story - out of an untold number of similar stories - this film will honour every act of bravery, even if they have now been lost to time.
Which moment in your film is personally the most significant for you and why?
For me it would have to be the last scene on the beach with Jack as an old man. He's played by my grandfather (who originally told me the story) and he sadly passed away very shortly after filming, but this film will always be something we shared, and I'm incredibly grateful for that.
Do you think your film can influence or inspire viewers?
I hope it does. This story was almost lost, and would've been if not for a chance-conversation with my grandpa after my family watched Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk (2017). I hope it might encourage someone to ask their relatives about that time, or any time really, as otherwise there may be so many stories of love, sacrifice or bravery that are lost forever.
If you had to describe your film with just one adjective, what would it be?
I would say contemplative, as there's elements of both victory and defeat - it's meant to make you think more than anything. I wanted to get across that war itself is not heroic, it's an awful thing, where ordinary people are exposed to the most horrific circumstances, but the base instincts of survival and helping each other are always there.
