LBB Film Club: IN/BETWEEN
‘IN/BETWEEN’ is a short film exploring the concept of existence in a society steeped in toxic masculinity that turns the central character into an obsessive narcissist. But it doesn’t spell that out for you. Instead, director and writer Jamie Jeale and his co-writer Joshua Smith (who voices and stars in the film), invite you to feel along with what you see, connecting to the emotions that Josh’s words and movement provide.
Produced in collaboration with Black Dog Films and with the generous support of partners Cheat, Bubble, Homespun, and Pixipixel, it’s paid off. ‘IN/BETWEEN’ has gained impressive festival attention. It was a finalist at the Paris International Film Festival, shortlisted at the Berlin Commercial Awards, a winner at the Best Indie Film Festival and in the selection at both Long Shot Film Festival and Bucharest Film Festival.
Ahead of a screening in London on October 31st, LBB’s Alex Reeves spoke to Jamie about his emotive film.
LBB> Where did this project begin for you and Josh?
Jamie> This story began to brew during the great covid-19 couch-potato era of 2020, when life decided to throw us a curveball and said, "Hey, slow down, folks!” As I found myself daydreaming during this period, my thoughts wandered to various aspects of my life, particularly my upbringing and how it had shaped the person I had become. Reflecting on who I am today compared to who I was 20 years ago, I realised that my younger self would be genuinely proud of the person I've evolved into, thinking “You’re way cooler than I thought you would be.”
This introspection inspired me to explore the concept of being caught ‘in between’ different facets of ourselves – the inner desires and aspirations versus the outward perceptions we project to the world. Motivated by these reflections, I decided to reach out to Josh, a collaborator I knew shared similar life experiences. We began exchanging thoughts, writings, and ideas, which gradually transformed into a captivating script that we now proudly call ‘IN/BETWEEN’.
LBB> What are the important ingredients for you to become involved in a film or writing a new piece of work?
Jamie> When I embark on a new project these days, it's got to be a real spark of inspiration or a profound connection to the source material. I also ask myself if I'm truly the best person for the job, or if there's someone else out there who can bring a closer relationship to the material.
Life's too short to willingly dive into awkward situations and forget the fun part. It's like trying to eat spaghetti with a fork made of rubber – you'll get there eventually, but it's a hilarious mess along the way! If we can't let loose, be a little silly, and genuinely enjoy ourselves, then what's the point, right? We shouldn't be enduring unnecessary pain. That's why who I work with is a massive deal for me. I have a strict ‘no jerks allowed’ policy because, at the end of the day, we're all just human beings when we strip away our titles.
Lastly, the project has to resonate with truth and the human experience. I want my audiences to walk away having learned something new about themselves, but I believe it can be done in a light and enjoyable manner.
LBB> ‘IN/BETWEEN’ is not an obvious narrative, but more an exploration of emotions. How did you decide the way to visualise that?
Jamie> We decided to visualise this narrative as an exploration of emotions rather than a straightforward story because we wanted to dig deep into the complexities of human feelings. Instead of following a traditional plot, we aimed to invite the audience to connect with their own emotions and experiences in a personal way. It's like we're presenting emotions as a puzzle to be felt and understood individually, allowing viewers to interpret and engage with the material on their terms. It's like painting with emotions, where every stroke on the canvas reveals a different facet of the human psyche.
LBB> What were the biggest challenges shooting it and how did you overcome those?
Jamie> One of the perpetual challenges in every project is time. It often feels like no matter how generous the budget or how many hours or days we allocate, it's never quite enough. That's why having an exceptional assistant director is an absolute game-changer. They need to strike that delicate balance, being assertive and time-conscious without becoming overly pushy.
To maximise our use of time, I prioritise shooting every moment, even if we're technically in a rehearsal phase. The rule is simple: if it isn't captured on camera, it can't be used in the edit. We're all on the quest to capture that authentic, genuine moment that makes you say, "Yes, that's real!” It's like chasing after the last piece of red chocolate velvet cake at a dessert buffet – we're determined to grab every opportunity and turn over every crumb in our quest for authenticity!
LBB> How does this film fit more broadly into your writing and directing work? What has it helped you to build?
Jamie> This film has been instrumental in helping me discover and nurture a more authentic voice within my work. For the past few years, it felt like I was often channelling the voices of others, both creatively and commercially. However, this script and its narrative serve as a mirror of my own childhood and personal experiences. It provides a wonderful avenue to delve into storytelling about individuals on quests for self-discovery and those pivotal moments in life when we seek to reconnect with the true essence of our existence.
My aim is to craft stories featuring characters who embark on a journey from point A to point B, inviting the audience to join them on this transformative path. Ultimately, I hope that viewers will leave the experience pondering how these stories resonate with their own lives and the choices they are making.
LBB> What will you always remember most about working on ‘IN/BETWEEN’?
Jamie> What I'll always cherish is that moment when someone said "Yes." It was Nancy Ryan at Black Dog Films/RSA Films who believed in my story when so often, we create and write, only to be met with indifference or "Our slate is full" responses. But that one time when someone embraces your vision and says "Yes," it feels nothing short of magical. It's crucial to hold onto those moments.
I'd also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my incredible collaborators and creative team for their dedication and time in bringing this project to life. And, of course, a resounding applause to Joshua Smith, the actor in the film, who brought remarkable honesty to his journey and embraced the character and material with unwavering commitment. Being alive and engaged in the act of creation is truly amazing. There's something profoundly satisfying about starting with a blank canvas and watching it evolve into its fullest, most vibrant form.
Details of the London screening follow:
