Film a labour of love for director

A film director has spent a year and a half working on a film dedicated to his dad – and he needs locals to help give the labour of love a final boost.

Tyler Redmond, 20, was just 9 years old when his dad, Formula 5000 racer Stan Redmond, died in a tragic car racing accident in 2013.

The Blenheim-based director and film maker’s latest movie, Dive, is a way of helping him work through his grief, he says.

“This story holds immense personal significance for me, as it touches on themes of grief, pain, and anger that I had to confront when my father passed away at a young age.

“It explores the profound impact such a loss can have on a family's dynamics and how one copes with it.”

The coming-of-age story follows troubled dad Troy, played by Fredrick Pokai, and his 14-year-old daughter, Paula, played by Lily Roebeck.

The pair have several notable successes under their belts already.

Lily played the little girl sent to the dairy on her own for the first time to buy milk in a nationwide advert for Meadow Fresh while Fredrick has starred in four films shown at the New Zealand International Film Festival.

The film is primarily about the pressures of success, Tyler says, revolving around the character of Paula, a dedicated competitive swimmer.

The cast and crew of about 100 people include some of the industry’s most experienced who have worked on films such as Avatar 2 and The Hobbit.

Now Tyler, who has invested $7000 of his own savings, needs 70 extras to help finish filming at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 and for people to donate towards film costs.

People of all ages are needed as extras and need to be at the Stadium from 4.30pm onwards on Saturday September 2.

“Dive is a community project. The money goes towards paying every single local crew member which means we can continue to make art in our region.”

Written by Fredrick, produced by Ruth Gill and directed by Tyler, Dive is also giving local youngsters the chance to get involved with all aspects of film making.

Seven interns aged between 12 and 18 years old, have not only be learning about what it takes to make a movie but have had the chance to make their own: Striking On Screen.

The film is set to make its screen debut at the Random Directions Film Festival on Saturday.

Tyler says he is delighted to be able to help offer the opportunity.

“Between this film and the intern programme, I’ve never been more proud.

“I didn’t have that opportunity when I was younger, so I wanted to give them a chance.

“They’re an amazing group, they blew me away; we have so much talent here.”

The fundraiser, which closes on August 22 has raised $1110 of the $3000 target.

Every person who donates to the film will be credited, Tyler says.

“I've never been more passionate about anything in my life, and I wouldn't be here asking for help if I didn't wholeheartedly believe in this project.

“Together, let's make a difference and bring this incredible story to life.”

To register as an extra please email [email protected] though walk ins will be taken on the day if needed.

To make find out more or make a donation visit www.boosted.org.nz/projects/dive-short-film/