Peter Hamblin

At the core of Independent film is the hustle, actually getting the film made - which is both exhausting and satisfying in the same breath. This is where the inspiration came for our film ‘In Hope Of Nothing’. As film makers we get so excited about our ideas, we believe they are unique and we strive forward with blind optimism, only for someone to turn around and withdraw funds or want to change the direction all together. Films end up not being made, but every now and then with persistence and a little dumb luck someone says “yes”, which is that grain of hope we all cling to.

I like to entertain with film, keep people on the edge of their seats, keep them guessing exploring where the story is going to go. Fiction allows for endless possibilities and provides the opportunity to push boundaries. Pushing those boundaries and taking risks is at the heart of “In Hope of Nothing”. It is a comedy drama, about two brothers who tried to make a sci fi film 3 years ago but had their budget pulled by the studio because they couldn’t agree on the characterisation of their lead character, Leonard. By some miracle they are given a second chance, and their producer agrees to re-finance the film, as long as they can come together to identify who Leonard is. This sets the brothers off on a journey of discovery. It explores the siblings’ relationship which is fractured due to unspoken feelings they have had from childhood, but also the trials and tribulations of independent film/the film industry in general. It’s a subject matter that we know well and hopefully it will resonate with aspiring film makers and professionals alike.

I am attracted to a dated aesthetic, something that’s a little bit lost in time. Shooting Anamorphic with vintage Cineovision lenses enhanced this feeling and gave great texture. Added to this the LUMIX S1H’s over 14 stops of dynamic range allowed for great scope in the grade, it really did exceed expectations.