The Cause

In October 2023 Olive cycled 750 km alone from London-Scotland and raised £10,032 for our film Carrot Cake. She cycled from the 13th - 19th of October, and stopping off in Milton Keynes, Nottingham, Leeds, Carnforth, Penrith, Abington and finally arriving in Glasgow.

We are now being endorsed by EMU Films and this short film is being viewed as a proof of concept for a feature. As a result, we need to raise a further 3K in order to go into production this April.

The Film

Carrot Cake follows a Birdwatcher called T (62) who is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. T continues to live as usual whilst befriending a young, troubled girl who finds herself at T’s bird watching spot. Meanwhile, her daughter Robyn (29) comes to stay, attempting to support her stubborn and charismatic mother.

Our short film delves into the intricate fabric of human experience by exploring two profound relationships: our connection to nature and our evolving relationship with ourselves. At its core, the narrative uses bird watching as a symbolic lens. This isn't just a pastime; it's a meditative act that underscores our deep-rooted ties to nature, showcasing the therapeutic power of such immersion. Numerous studies have attested to the immense benefits of connecting with the natural world, highlighting improved mental well-being and reduced stress levels.

Parallel to this narrative is a poignant exploration of an Alzheimer's diagnosis, shedding light on the evolving relationship we have with ourselves. An Alzheimer's diagnosis isn't just about memory loss; it's a redefinition of self-awareness, identity, and personal history. As the disease progresses, it brings forth complex emotions, challenges, and changes, reshaping not only the individual's understanding of self but also the perceptions and interactions of their loved ones.

Our Partnerships

Recognizing the weight and importance of these messages, we've formed a partnership with the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) to ensure our portrayal of the human-nature bond, especially through bird watching, is authentic and meaningful. We continue to seek a partnership with a Dementia charity, and in the meantime have gained insight and feedback from specialists in the field as well as those with lived experiences. Also supporting us is Swarvoski Optik providing expertise and high quality binoculars, with a core belief in the importance behind finding refuge in nature. Learn more here: https://www.bto.org & https://www.swarovskioptik.com/gb/en/birding

We are being supported by EMU Films whose support and guidance has been pivotal in the efficacy of delivering this short film. Credits include: Small Axe, Catch Me Daddy and Benediction. Learn more here: https://emufilms.com/home

Our Team

⭐️ Lead Actress - Niamh Cusack

Niamh Cusack is an Irish actress who has served with the UK's two leading theatre companies, the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal National Theatre, and has performed in a long line of major stage productions since the mid-1980s. She has made numerous appearances on television including a long-running role as Dr. Kate Rowan in the UK series Heartbeat (1992–1995) which made her a household name and favourite. Her credits include a starring role in In Love with Alma Cogan (2011), Rebellion (2014),Departure (2015), The Ghoul (2016) Silent Witness (2016), The Virtues (2019), Death in Paradise (2021). Niamh Cusack has acted in a number of short films including Midpoint (2022) & Returning (both by Lucy Bridger).

📝 Writer/Director - Olive Pascha

London-based Olive Pascha is a British filmmaker, writer, and theatre director with a rich experience in theatre direction across the UK, Russia, and India. In 2019, she directed the highly-reviewed ‘Pig’ and was selected as a Young Everyman & Playhouse Director. She ventured into filmmaking during the pandemic, directing several films like ‘Evie’ and ‘Auntie Climax.’ 2022 saw her attending a cinematography course at Cinestudio, Paris. Olive's main interests lie in realism and perspective.

👩‍💻 Lead Producer - Jessica Pearce

Jessica, co-founder of Harquart Pearce, began with a BSc from Warwick before studying acting. She's a dynamic producer with an impressive portfolio, including projects with budgets ranging from £5k to £250k. Committed to diversity and gender balance in film, her films have been showcased internationally. She's produced several London film and theatre projects and recently wrapped up "The Testing Point (2023)."

💼 Line Producer - Esme Lewis-Gartside

Esme is a creative facilitator, producer and musician. She comes from a background of live event production which has lead her into producing for film, dance and nightlife. Her focus is on platforming artists of marginalised genders and creating spaces for untold stories

🎥 Director of Photography - Conrad Magan

Based in London, Conrad initiated his journey at Goldsmiths University, later working as a Camera Assistant for big names like Netflix and Amazon. While assisting, Conrad developed award-winning short films, including ‘Evie.’ His portfolio includes commercials and music videos, but Conrad's passion is deeply rooted in narrative cinematography.

🎨 Production Designer - Annie Tinsley

Annie melds art direction with a unique perspective on the interplay between body and environment. Her portfolio boasts of projects with BFI, Netflix, and several music festivals. Whether designing for film or painting for events, Annie's work consistently reflects her unique vision.

🪡 Costume Designer - Rianna Azoro

Rianna began with a foundation diploma and apprenticeship, later branching out across various media. Her notable credits include ‘Top Boy Season 3’ for Netflix and ‘A Quiet Place 3 : Day One.’ As a Costume Supervisor, she’s contributed to several theatre productions, and she's also worked on high-profile music videos and commercials.

Director's Statement