Local writer and director Chris Green returns with his latest feature film Strangeways Here We Come, starring Michelle Keegan, Stephen Lord and Elaine Cassidy.
As the sardonic title suggests, the film is a black comedy with its roots firmly in the region. It has a smart, original script that turns the table on the Brit-flick gangster movie, as Chris, the man behind the film, informs...
"Set on Salford Precinct flats, the film is a rough arse comedy about some of the residents who take the law into their own hands after being subjected to horrendous interest rates and abusive methods of paying off their debts to Danny Nolan, a vicious loan shark played by Stephen Lord."
The punchy story sees the residents of the estate concoct a booze-inspired plan to dispose of the unsavoury Nolan. Initially they believe that this dark deed is for the greater good. Unfortunately, Danny Nolan is soon replaced by more sinister force... his wife.
It's a clever twist and introduces the audience to the 'hell-hath-no-fury' Steph Nolan, played by Stephen Lord's real life wife and star of No Offence, Elaine Cassidy.
Strangeways Here We Come is also the film debut for Corrie star Michelle Keegan. The film sees her in unfamiliar territory, moving away from the recognisable pin-up we are accustomed to as she shows her talent with a gritty portrayal...
"Working with Michelle was great" says Chris "There was a lot of media attention while we were filming, with press trying to get on set and grab photos of her but she handles it really well. She's also a consummate professional and a fantastic actor, as were all of the cast on Strangeways.
"She has some great lines in the film, and I think people are going to really love her character which is so different to others that she's played" he adds.
Strangeways Here We Come also features a great soundtrack that includes tracks by local favourites including The Moods and Death to the Strange.
Meanwhile, Chris has another exciting project in the pipeline and his passion for music is again evident. The Pebble and the Boy is a film inspired by the music of his idol Paul Weller.
The director gives an affectionate homage to the scooter scene with a relatable tale of family and loss. Last year, a successful promo event was held at 53:two to help get the film off the ground. The Pebble and the Boy promo was well received and Paul Weller gave his permission to use his music. His backing is a huge endorsement of the upcoming feature.
"Pebble is my mod road movie on scooters inspired by the music of Paul Weller" explains Chris "It's been in development for a long time, and we got to the stage where we said we either shoot it now or shelve it. And with it being the 40th anniversary of Quadrophenia next year we had to take the plunge and say 'This is happening this year'.
"We're currently trying to raise the last of the finance that we need, and it's been a huge struggle" he adds "But we have an amazing cast that we will be announcing soon and there is a Crowdfunder running until September 8th and we're hoping to raise the money we need. So if anyone fancies investing in the film they can contact me, and if they want to contribute to the Crowdfunder and even be in the film then they can click on the link and join us?"
The film now needs a final push to get it to the big screen. You can get involved with Crowdfunder and benefit from some great rewards. A donation to the production can result in all manner of treats from limited edition mod goods, walk/ride on parts for mods and scooterists and even a role in the film!
Take a look at the Crowdfunder goodies and opportunities for The Pebble and the Boy ? click here
Be sure to watch Strangeways Here We Come when it is released on 5th October. Take a look at the trailer - click here...
Words by Ian Leslie
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