Eden Brennan, Holly Hajbok and Abrish Khan rollback the curtains on the production of In Bluebell Wood a short film filled that will enchant hearts of all ages. Set in a Scout Camp, ‘The Explorers’ head into the wilderness for a weekend of fun survival skill training. But what they find is more than what they bargained for! Eden, Holly and Abrish talk to us about their work with Laura Ellen Wilson…
indieactivity: How’d connect to the project? Audition? If you did would you still get the part?
Eden Brennan (EB): I had worked with the director before and thankfully they remembered me for the role! I do wonder if I would have still got the part if I had to audition as there is such a talented cast!
Holly Hajbok (HH): I worked with the director Laura previously and she remembered me and knew I was perfect for my role as she loved my energy.
Abrish Khan (AK): We got connected to the project as we have worked with the director before. They remembered us from then. We didn’t need to have an audition.
What part of the story challenged you? What made you want to accept the role?
Eden Brennan (EB): I was so thankful to have been offered the role and working with the director was a massive positive. The fantasy theme of the film will mean that I must use my imagination during filming which will challenge me. I’m also excited to work with other cast members who I already know and have worked with before.
Holly Hajbok (HH): It sounded mysterious and fun and something I would love to watch myself. I just knew I had to go for this one after reading it with my mum.
Abrish Khan (AK): The story sounded so good. It could be a real life story (with a difference) which intrigued me in wanting to be in the project.
You’re not new to indies. What do you enjoy about the work that keeps you working?
Eden Brennan (EB): Its great meeting new people and I’ve met lots of friends with the opportunities I’ve had. That’s probably the best part! Every time I’ve been involved in independent films I’ve had fun on set and gained more experience. Some of the projects that I have been in, have tackled great topics.
Holly Hajbok (HH): I love making new friends and learning new scripts. Every film is a new adventure and I love playing different exciting characters like this one.
Abrish Khan (AK): I have worked with quite a number of students or new directors. I really enjoy being on set, with a range of new and old faces. I always make new friends!
How did you develop your character?
Eden Brennan (EB): Emma is a little like me in that she’s very active and has a big imagination. I’m practicing a lot at home with the script and have been working on expression to improve my non verbals.
Holly Hajbok (HH): This character is very different to other characters I have played, and I need to bring something special and unique. Sorry, I can’t say more about it as my character has a lot of spoilers! I will be practicing lots and lots making sure I have the right presence needed for my role.
Abrish Khan (AK): I am doing a bit of improv to get into my character. We are all going to be meeting up for a rehearsal before we start filming too. This is going to be lots of fun as we are going to be meeting the cast and crew members we haven’t already met and of course, meeting old friends too.
Describe the responsibility you shouldered? Did it fire you up? What scenes were difficult to shoot?
Eden Brennan (EB): I think because I already know quite a few of the cast I’m looking at it as an adventure and think we will have a lot of fun. I know that it’s a big part and I can’t believe that people have so much belief in me. I am a little nervous as I really don’t want to let anyone down and know the rest of the cast is super talented. I’m working on the scene where I pass out, as that will be new for me and I know it needs I look realistic and not over dramatic.
Holly Hajbok (HH): I’m really happy to have another lead role and this is one with some amazing child actors. Working together is going to be so much fun and we will all learn from each other, I can’t wait. There are a few scenes that will be fun and challenging to film which makes it such an exciting project and very different.
Abrish Khan (AK): I am a little nervous but once on set, I think it will fire me up and all the nerves will disappear!
