The Art of Film: Mother Caught in Fire Calls 999 In London
Watch this first, then read further.
“Operator,” from Writer/Director Caroline Bartleet is a perfect example of how good story well executed drives audience engagement.
The script is based on a real and terrifying 999 call. In a few short minutes, 6:28 to be exact, we are drawn into a true life-or-death scenario. A mother, whose house is burning, calls 999 in London as she panics trying to save the life of her three-year-old son. The operator at the call center is one of life’s unsung heroes and the film dramatically portrays the encounter between the two. We are left emotionally drained and in awe of what these people do for us every day.
Classic story telling. Beautiful filmmaking. Simplicity and strength.
The Operator is played by Katie Dickie (Game of Thrones) and Vicky McClure (This is England) wrenches our hearts as the mother, Gemma.
Kudos to Producer Rebecca Morgan, Editor Yann Heckmann, DP Vanessa Whyte, Production Designer Isobel Dunhill, Sound Designer Lisa-Marie McStay, Composer Navid Ashgri and Colorist Edwin Metternich. The full cast and crew list may be seen at the end credits of the video.
For more information visit the film’s web page.
The film was funded successfully, raising £7,050 through Kickstarter and was shot over two days at the at the London Fire Brigade.
“Operator” is enjoying success on the festival circuit and we predict that when Academy season starts again, this will be one of the nominees. Stay tuned for more information as we follow this film.
