Exciting News, Off Grid is Ready for Release!

Dear friends, followers, and film enthusiasts,

I am thrilled to announce that my short film, "Off Grid," is finally ready for public release! Its been a rollercoaster five years since the film was finished in its festival version. A fragmented stop-start, COVID-affected festival run meant the months of hard work, dedication, and meticulous attention to detail that went into the film got lost in the general societal chaos that was unfolding (ironic given its theme!). However, its given me a lot of time to reflect and look at the final output and I realised something - although I was happy with the film, there were a few technical aspects that... just didn't work. Working with the Lennon to my McCartney, Liam Millard, we went back to the drawing board and through a huge amount of work, have achieved an incredible final grade that perfectly captures the essence of this post-apocalyptic thriller and elevates it ready for a release to streaming.

About the Film

"Off Grid" is set in a world where society has collapsed. The mighty James Cosmo, an actor I've been a huge fan of since Braveheart, plays John Tanner. An elderly man still powerful and fiercely protective of his sick wife, Grace, played by the incomparable Alison Steadman. The film looks at the lengths John will go to protect his own but also explores some deep issues around the breakdown of mental health in the face of societal pressures. At its core, "Off Grid" explores themes of isolation, mental health, and the enduring yet dangerous power of love.

Release Schedule

I'm excited to share that "Off Grid" will be available for streaming on [Prime Video] and [YouTube] later this June. I invite you all to join us on this journey and experience "Off Grid" for yourselves. Your support means the world to me and the entire team behind the film. We believe this story will resonate with many, and we are eager to share it with a wider audience.

A Personal Note

I just want to take a moment to honour my nan, Dorothy, who recently passed away peacefully from old age and severe dementia. Her passing, just a month before our planned release of "Off Grid," feels incredibly ironic and poignant. The narrative was always a personal one. It was formulated with Mark Brendan in 2017, following the loss of my grandfather, Douglas . My grandad's battle with severe dementia deeply influenced the direction we took with the film's portrayal of mental health issues in a post-apocalyptic setting. The experiences of seeing his decline became a powerful catalyst for the film's emotional depth and authenticity. To now have lost my nan, his soul mate of over 60 years, in almost identical circumstances reminds me of the very themes we explore in the film – the power of enduring love, the fragility of memory, the pain of loss, and the resilience required to face challenges. My nan, like my grandad, has left an indelible mark on my life and this project. I now see "Off Grid" as more than just a short film; it is a tribute to what they endured and a reflection on the impact of mental health struggles. I hope the film will raise awareness and spark conversations about these important issues. Nan, Grandad, I love you both and I'm glad you are together again. xx

Thanks everyone, I hope you get behind the film and I look forward to people's thoughts when the film lands.

With gratitude,

Carl

Director/Producer - Off Grid