Hello, We are Belfast based media students producing 'Machine', a short film for our end of year project of our foundation degree film course at 'E3 Studios'.
What's our film about?
"Perfection is Imperfection."
'Machine' explores how the various mental illnesses Max suffers from impacts his life, and the dilemma he faces once a romantic interest, Alex, enters his life.
Max suffers from neuro-divergent related mental disorders, his anxiety, OCD, tinnitus and poor mental health play a substantial role in his behaviour and outlook on himself, comparing his emotions and mentality to a machine.
Along with Max’s mentality being explored, the plot also asks the question of how romance is affected when mental illness can make one feel they are a burden and unworthy of a happy, or ‘normal’ life.
Max feels it is unfair for Alex to be with someone who isn't 'normal' enough but cannot see that Alex looks past Max's flaws. He is so confined to this mindset that he never questions if anybody knows what normal is?
Alex is also battling her own struggles, suffering from self-harm and depression.
Before Max can accept Alex into his life, he must first accept himself.
Will Max and Alex recognize and accept themselves and each other for who they are?
'Machine' elaborates on how seemingly insignificant aspects of mental illness can impact day to day life.
Genre(s): Drama, romance. (Elements of hyper-realism.)
This screenplay means a lot to me and I want to ensure it can be translated effectively into this short film so any size donations are HUGELY appreciated.
We plan to film March 2025.
What will your donation go towards?
Catering
Travel
Cast
Location
Props & Set Decoration
As our way of saying thanks, your generosity and contribution to 'Machine' will be credited at the end of the film, along with an invitation should a premier happen for our film.
If you cannot donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser with others or check out our instagram '@Machine_studentfilm_ 2025' where we will regularly post updates, news, promos and everything 'Machine'.
The Crew:
(Primary)
Writer & Director: Harry Semple
Producer: Martina Kearns
1st Assistant Director: Alex Esin
Production Designer: Ben Bingham
Cinematographer: Maisen Sayle
Camera Operator: Linton Proctor
Gaffer: Jake Bacon
Sound Mixer: Ryan Attwood
Grip: Jamie Archer
(Secondary)
2nd Assistant Director: Eve Connolly
Script Supervisor: David Quinn
Art Director: Charlotte Hutchinson
Boom Operator: Fearghal Mccarney
1st Assistant Camera: Jude Carne
2nd Assistant Camera: Aimee Lemon
Best Boy Grip: Taylor Faulkner
Best Boy Electric: Conor Mccartney
Set PA: Cliodhna Gray
Closing remarks
The production of 'Machine' is still in it's early stages, so please check back frequently as we plan to include more promotional material and backer-exclusive content!
If you have any queries, please feel free to contact us, or message us on instagram @Machine_studentfilm_2025
Thank you so much for your time and helping us produce this film!
-Harry