Get ready to dive into the world of British independent cinema and the creative freedom it offers, as we explore the upcoming film 'Mission' and its stars, George MacKay and Rosy McEwen. This article will take you behind the scenes, revealing the unique and liberating experience these talented actors had while shooting this unconventional film.
Unconventional Creativity
'Mission', directed by Paul Wright, is a bold and improvisational project. The film follows Dylan, played by MacKay, on a week-long journey of self-discovery and existential chaos. What makes this film truly fascinating is its unconventional approach. Wright chose to throw caution to the wind, opting for an improv-heavy style with no initial script. Instead, he created a visual guide, a 'lookbook', to set the tone and provided circumstances for the characters to navigate.
"It was, creatively, a really interesting idea," MacKay shares, highlighting the unique process of discovering the story and characters during the filming process.
For McEwen, this was a first-of-its-kind experience. She describes the freedom and limitless options they had, which is a rare treat in the film industry.
The Allure of Independent Film
Both MacKay and McEwen are in-demand British actors, yet they find themselves drawn back to independent film projects. Why? The answer lies in the creative freedom and growth these smaller sets offer. MacKay emphasizes the importance of experimentation and how it leads to new and exciting creations. He believes that the process of making a film is just as important, if not more so, than the final product.
McEwen agrees, stating that these intimate settings are where she feels she truly grows as an actor. The lack of financial constraints allows for more autonomy and creative choices, which is a rare and valuable opportunity in the film industry.
"These big studio [films], it's a totally different beast... The freedom you get on these smaller sets. This is where I become a better actor. And if you're not growing, what are you really doing?" - McEwen
A Director's Vision
The collaboration between MacKay and Wright is a key aspect of 'Mission'. Having worked together on 'For Those in Peril', a life-changing experience for MacKay, the actor was drawn to Wright's unique directing style and the freedom it offered. Wright's approach, which involves creating an archive of material and discovering the narrative in the editing process, is a refreshing take on filmmaking.
McEwen, on the other hand, was drawn to the project by the opportunity to work with MacKay and Wright. She describes the experience as liberating and intimate, with a small crew and a lot of room for play and exploration.
Relatability and Questions
When it comes to finding relatability in Dylan's extreme journey, MacKay taps into the questions we all have about life and our place in it. The character's clear understanding of his path, despite being deemed 'off-track', is a powerful message. It raises questions about the imbalance in our world and the choices we make, knowingly or not.
"I think if you put it to most people, they would agree. How we live our lives, what we value, how we value it, the means with which we go about it." - MacKay
McEwen's character, Claire, offers a different perspective. She represents a more subdued approach to life, accepting her fate and feeling saddened by it. The siblings, despite their different coping mechanisms, are cut from the same cloth, highlighting the various ways we deal with life's challenges.
A Festival Celebration
'Mission' is set to premiere in competition at the Edinburgh Film Festival, a celebration of independent cinema. MacKay hopes that audiences will leave the film questioning their way of being and embracing the experimental nature of the project. McEwen, on the other hand, wants viewers to consider their own freedom and whether they're truly living the life they want.
"I hope it helps people ask themselves questions about freedom." - McEwen
Final Thoughts
'Mission' offers a unique glimpse into the world of British independent film and the creative freedom it provides. Through the eyes of MacKay and McEwen, we see the allure of these smaller projects and the growth they offer. It's a reminder that sometimes, the process is just as important, if not more so, than the final product. So, let's celebrate the experimentation and the artists who dare to think outside the box.
