First of all, how did you get into film-making? "I first got into filmmaking in 1997 at East Berkshire College in Maidenhead & Langley where I studied my A Levels in Media, English & Photography. I went to Bournemouth University to study BA Television & Video Production in 1999 and graduated in 2002." What inspired you to create Peppermint?
 | | Jennifer Oliver as Beth in Peppermint |
"As a student I'd watch shows like Jerry Springer and Trisha and felt alarmed at their sensationalism and wanted to write a story that gave deeper character to these people in crazy situations. When the opportunity arose financially to make a low-budget film, this personal project seemed like the ideal choice." What is the general outline of Peppermint? "Peppermint is a present day drama about Beth, a young teenager whose life is a difficult mix of emerging sexuality, turbulent relationships and personal insecurity. The story circles around Beth's attempt to validate herself in the eyes of her competitive mother Ann, resulting in a series of shocking revelations which unfold in the space of one difficult day. "Caught in the emotional crossfire are Mike and Nan, the people closest to the pair. Through their interactions emerges a past of parental neglect and irresponsible adulthood, which looks inevitably set to repeat itself." Take us through the processes of making the finished film. Any obstacles? "The time between deciding to make the film and completing it was just under a year. There were plenty of big obstacles which we wrote into our blog (http://peppermintproductiondiary.blogspot.com), but the largest challenge is getting it out to the audiences and distributing it!" What advice do you have for young film makers?
 | | Christopher Tajah as Mike with James Fair |
"Get a good script, make it better until it is a really good script. And then make it, and ignore people who say it can't be done." What are your plans for the near future? "I've produced & directed a documentary about an overland road trip to the Sahara called Me, My Boss, A Farmer & His Son which should be ready for Autumn 2006." What are your ambitions? "My ambition for the future is to continue making films, and make it less stressful each time. I'd quite like to spend more time with my friends!" Where can people see the film? The film will be screened at 7pm on Thursday 23rd March at The Genesis Cinema, Whitechapel, London. Tickets can be arranged by emailing through www.peppermintthefilm.com
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