Is the title of a new movie that I am shooting right now. Up On The Roof. Good title. Good film. It's what people call a low budget film. It is directed by up and comer Ben Hecking who is now on his fifth feature. Film is obviously in his blood, which is always an exciting element in a director. he's not just trying his hand at it, or flying by the ol' seat o' th' pants, he is in it for the long game. And he comes at it from a cameraman's angle. That's his training, altho' at that helm we have Simona Susnea who has previously only shot shorts and docs, but seems really capable. How refreshing to say that the last two jobs I have worked on, Hunting Bears and this, have both been shot by female DoPs. Shouldn't really have to mention it, but it hasn't been the case for me before and it is a relief. I have known many female DoPs and generally the only difference between male and female is the age! Meaning that they have never been given the chance, and now they are; long may it continue.
Just to add that Damian has written the most beautiful piece about Helen in the Sunday Times. It's uttlery brilliant. Damian, you are a credit to her. xx
What hugely sad news. It seems that all I write at the moment are messages about friends who have left us, and this is a huge sad blow to all her family and friends. Like Paul Ritter, I only worked with Helen once, but I have known her and Damian on and off for years. My heart goes out to all those close friends, of which I know there are LOADS. She was one of the rare ones. And Damian, I send you and your Huge love.
N x
What an amazing lady.
I grew up with a mysticism surrounding this extraordinary person. She had acted with my dad at Oxford and was now (then) a powerful and prominent politician. I looked up to her with awe. Whenever I met her she was charming and challenging. She would ask me why I was doing whatever it was I was doing. There was both an interest and a challenge to do better. My dad was actually engaged to her at Oxford for a short time. I think at the sane time that he was Lear and she was Cordelia. That's what I mean by mysticism. This wee woman, (I think I out grew her when I was about 12) in very boring clothes had been engaged to my dad and acted and was now fiercely political.
Paul was one of our most talented and lovely actors. Having worked with him in The Audience, I watched him whenever I could. His talent was quite outrageous really. Funny, witty and so bloody clever, with his heart so much in the right place. I am sure you would all join in sending his family the very best wishes. xx Paul xx