Screenbound International Pictures is set to shop helmer Arabella Burfitt-Dons’ sophomore feature “Finding My Voice” to international buyers at the upcoming Cannes Film Market, with a world premiere screening due on May 15.
The coming-of-age music drama stars Michelle Ryan (“Bionic Woman”), Nick Moran (“Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels”), Kierston Wareing (“Fish Tank”), Arifin Putra (“The Raid 2”) and introduces newcomer Anais Garness in the lead role.
Shot on location in Essex and London, “Finding My Voice” follows a teenage girl who faces devastating setbacks when she’s removed from her family after her baby brother’s death due to her mother’s alcoholism. The film chronicles her journey as she navigates life in a children’s home that attempts to exploit her musical talents, ultimately finding her way back to her dreams of stardom through determination and support from those around her.
The film features original music by Nick Southwood, who previously worked on “Lost Stars” in John Carney’s “Begin Again.”
Burfitt-Dons, who previously helmed the award-winning “Grey Matter” starring Elizabeth Berrington and Stephanie Beacham, pivoted to a younger demographic with her latest effort.
“It isn’t just about the music; it’s a reflection of young people growing up in difficult circumstances,” Burfitt-Dons said. “Melanie’s journey to stardom is more than challenging, and unexpectedly dark.”
Alan Byron of Screenbound addedl: “Screenbound is delighted to be representing this positive and redemptive coming-of-age drama with its talented cast and award-winning, young director. As we’ve seen with ‘Adolescence’ there is an increasing desire for immersive drama content that is not afraid to tell authentic stories that appeal to teenage audiences. ‘Finding My Voice’ has completely nailed this realism and I’m sure it will go on to win festival awards and connect with a younger audience.”
Producer Djonny Chen of Silent D Pictures said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Screenbound for the distribution of our film. Their passion for independent cinema and extensive industry expertise make them the perfect sales agent to bring our project to audiences worldwide. We look forward to seeing our film reach new heights under their guidance.”
Screenbound, which is part of the Screenbound Entertainment Group (established 2003), will exhibit at the Riviera during the Cannes Film Market. The company is a member of both the Independent Film and Television Alliance (IFTA) and Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television (PACT).
variety.com
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