Nathan Powell is a Liverpool-based director who has been selected to produce a short film as part of Collective Encounters’ new programme of micro commissions. Here is a message from Nathan inviting you to contribute your own video message and be part of this new film.

 

A film of hope and solidarity

This is a tricky time, we can’t pretend it’s not, but there is some real beauty coming from this lockdown. We are seeing amazing acts of kindness, community and a wider appreciation of the services and the people that we often take for granted, from those making us better in the NHS to those working tirelessly to keep us fed in the local grocery shops and supermarkets.

I have been taking daily walks with my daughter who is 18 months old. These walks have given me space for reflection, appreciation and an overwhelming impulse to make the world the best place it can be for her in the future.

So, the film…I will create a short film that is part spoken word, part community declaration on this sentiment. I am asking you to think about what you want to TRY and do once we have found a way to deal with Covid-19 to make the world a better place. That’s not as big and overwhelming as it sounds, I don’t want you to make promises or pin yourself to things and feelings that may shift, who knows what world we’ll emerge to, but I’d like you to commit to TRYING something that will make the world a better place for at least one person.

 

Here is the ask and format

  • Record a 15 second close up video of yourself (shoulders up) looking into the camera. Feel comfortable to do whatever your face wants to do, it’s not a staring competition! These 15 seconds of you looking into the camera are important for the editing process.
  • After 15 seconds, tell us what you want to try and do. Below is the format

Dear…….

I will try to ………….

lots of love……. (or however you would sign off)

 

An example

Dear baby Zadie

I will try to take you on more cycling trips to the waterfront

Lots of love, daddy

 

Or

 

Dear future generations

I will try to make the world a cleaner place for you to live

Lots of love Nathan

 

How to submit

Please send videos back to me in their original size by WeTransfer to nathan.powell141@gmail.com by FRIDAY 22ND MAY. If you are struggling to send the video then get in touch on the same email address and I will help you send the videos over.

I will edit these videos together to create a wonderful video of hope and solidarity in our current separation.

Looking forward to hearing your words and seeing your faces!

Thank you.

Nathan Powell