THE FAILED ART OF AVOIDANCE (2014)
A silent short comedy based on two people who are faced with a chance meeting... with the person they are desperate to avoid. This forces them both to make a difficult decision: ignore or acknowledge?
This script focuses on two people who want the same thing but react and choose different courses of action to achieve it. I chose to make it silent and to convey their emotions through movement, expression and body language.
First time filming outside during the day and experimenting with dolly and tracks in an uncontrolled environment.
Status: Complete
Production Stills
Cast & Crew Credits
Chris
Sean Halket
April
Neila Stephens
Photographer
Jonathan MacDonell
Writer/Director/Producer/Editor
Aimie Willemse
Director of Photography
Richard Steele
2nd Cameraman
Sean Robertson
Audio Recordist
Andy Birkett
Makeup Artist
Fay De Neef
Production Stills
Jonathan MacDonell
Sound Design
Lewis Bage
Composer
Josh Shrouder
Colourist
Yutsil Martinee
Main Cast:
April - Neila Stephens
As soon as Neila auditioned for the female lead April, I immediately knew she was the right one for the role. She carried herself with a steady confidence that I had always imagined her character hid behind. A tough and unflinching mask in the face of any situation; but still conveyed that underlying sense of vunerablilty and nervousness.
Chris - Sean Halket
I found casting the role of Chris to be particularly difficult as his character is a mix of awkwardness and nerves, wearing his feelings on his sleeve.
Many talented actors auditioned for this role but it wasn't until Sean I felt that I knew someone had a connection to character's personality as well his brilliant comedy through perfect expressions and body language.
*All photographs were taken by Jonathan MacDonell - Crimson Photography
