THE DISTANCES BETWEEN (2016)

Synopsis

Tensions rise when a frustrated Sophie begins to realise that geography isn't the only distance growing between her and her boyfriend James.

Sensing her growing uneasiness, James pushes Sophie into reluctantly confessing all her unspoken doubts and fears about their uncertain future together. With this startling revelation, they are both suddenly faced with the difficult truth about their relationship: that love alone might not be enough to survive the distance.

Written and directed by Aimie Willemse, this script started off as an exercise in writing simple yet honest dialogue between two characters until it developed into a story about the realistic struggles facing a couple who are caught in an emotional rut. Delving into personal experiences meant that the script could explore all those complex, raw and conflicting emotions through authentic characters; successfully creating an honest short about the reality involved in long-distance relationship.

Trailer

Main Cast

Sophie Laing - Arlene McKenna

"I wanted to play Sophie from the first reading of the script as I felt that I knew her- I've met her before- I knew her struggle." - Arlene McKenna

For me, Arlene was a natural choice for the role of Sophie because she tapped into the character's

complex emotions. Watching her connect with all that pain, fear, longing and frustration gave me chills as she delivered a heartfelt performance that felt completely genuine.

James Noble - Tim Pollack

"I was drawn to the character of James for his inability to accept change." - Tim Pollack

Casting James was more difficult because there was a fine line between believable and just being the “asshole boyfriend”. But Tim’s performance captured this character’s growing complacency and wilful obliviousness consistently. Tim’s shift from visibly restrained anger to crushing guilt and regret in a heartbeat made James feel more human.