Arabella Burfitt-Dons’ dark coming-of-age music drama film “Finding My Voice” has completed principal photography and is currently in post.
Debutant Anais Garness is in the lead role of teenage aspiring singer-songwriter Melanie Kendall, raised in a North London council apartment by her mother Lisa, portrayed by “Bionic Woman” star Michelle Ryan. Indonesian actor Arifin Putra, known for his role in cult film “The Raid 2,” plays music producer Chris Russell. The cast also includes Junior Andre (“On the Other Foot”), BAFTA-nominated Kierston Wareing (“It’s a Free World…”), Tracy Shaw (“Coronation Street”), musician and actor Peter Andre, Vicki Michelle (“Allo! Allo!”) Nick Moran (the Harry Potter franchise) and Rachel Warren (“Rise of the Footsoldiers”). British presenter Dave Berry also stars in the film presenting on his Absolute Radio breakfast show.
The film, written by Donna Taylor who also produces and stars in the film, follows Melanie Kendall’s journey to fame and explores themes such as family loss, alcoholism and sexual exploitation. Taylor said: “I wanted the script to reflect the challenges of growing up in poverty, when it feels like there’s nothing else life can throw at you but somehow you find a way to just keep going.”
Burfitt-Dons’ debut feature “Grey Matter” premiered at Toronto’s at the Female Eye Film Festival where it won best foreign debut and will release theatrically across the U.K. imminently. Burfitt-Dons said: “‘Finding My Voice’ isn’t just about the music; it’s a reflection of young people growing up in difficult circumstances. Melanie’s journey to stardom is more than challenging, and unexpectedly dark.”
The Silent D Pictures and DT Film Productions film was shot at Essex and London locations and is expected to premiere later this year.
Producer Djonny Chen of Silent D Pictures (“Before Night Falls”) said: “Arabella was an obvious choice for the film. Her meticulous approach and attention to detail is evident in every frame. She cultivated a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere on set and her infectious enthusiasm for the project really brought out the best in the actors. It’s clear she is on track for remarkable achievements in her career.”
“Finding My Voice” features music by Nick Southwood (“Lost Stars” in “Begin Again”). Philippe Ashfield is handling publicity.
