From Idea to Reel: Freddie’s Story
Every film starts with a spark, and for me, that spark came from the streets I grew up in — the south of England. The people, the lingo, the energy of everyday life shaped my perspective, and it’s that energy that inspired Freddie. There’s something about gangster characters that has always resonated with me: their intensity, loyalty, and the way they navigate a world full of rules, risks, and power. Freddie became the embodiment of that grit.
My journey in acting and television, from being an extra on productions like EastEnders, Holby City and witnessing one of my favorite directors, Matthew Vaughn, at work on Kingsman 2, gave me an insider’s understanding of performance, camera work, and storytelling. Being on set taught me how subtle gestures, timing, and presence can define a character. It also ignited a desire to tell my own stories — stories that felt personal, raw, and authentic. That’s when I realized I wanted not only to direct Freddie’s story but to step into his shoes myself.
The idea began small — a character living between loyalty and danger, charm and menace. His relationships, his choices, and the way he moves through the world reflect the tensions and energy I observed growing up. Playing Freddie allows me to channel that lived experience directly into the performance, bringing the intensity and authenticity I want audiences to feel. At the same time, directing the production ensures every visual choice — from lighting to camera angles — aligns with the vision I had from the start.
Pre-production was about grounding Freddie’s world. I mapped out locations, props, and storyboards that would make his environment feel lived-in and authentic. Every shot was planned to capture not just action, but emotion, tension, and the subtle power dynamics that define him. Production was an immersive experience — balancing the demands of acting and directing, making sure every frame told the story, and ensuring Freddie’s energy came through as vividly as I envisioned.
Post-production was where the character fully came alive. Editing, sound design, and color grading emphasized Freddie’s world — the shadows, textures, and intensity that make the story pulse. Every choice reinforced his presence on screen and the atmosphere of the world he inhabits.
Freddie isn’t just a character — he’s a reflection of the streets, culture, and people that shaped me, and a chance to combine my acting experience with my filmmaking vision. This is my story, my performance, my direction — and my way of bringing gritty, authentic cinema to life.
