Gourmanium
In the aftermath of a nuclear war, world-famous gourmet chef Pierrot raises his daughter Kelly underground in their purpose built bunker. But as supplies dwindle, he must learn that he cannot protect her from reality forever.
Benjamin Sitton is a writer / director / producer / 1st AD currently based in both London and Suffolk. He graduated from Film School at Ravensbourne University London with First Class Honours, and in the space of one year, has managed to direct three short films, all of which are currently submitting for their festival runs. The theatrical and the artificial are of greatest interest to Ben aesthetically, as he challenges himself to create films with heightened, fantastical worlds that are still grounded by potent themes of real world struggles and issues. Formalist film theory is a great inspiration for Ben, as he seeks to forge images and sequences with a staying power both through his writing and directing.
His student graduate short film ‘GOURMANIUM’, explores real world fears through a childlike fairytale setting, and despite limited resources, he has managed to clearly establish his artistic interests, namely his passion for putting the art department at the front and centre of his work, and a tone that balances humour, tragedy, and catharsis.
His most recent short film ‘FROGSPAWN’, began with a desire to tell something deeply personal, with as much formal freedom as possible, despite having virtually no budget. The film was a great experience for Ben to develop his ability to work with actors on dialogue heavy scenes, whilst also demonstrating his love of lighting and production design. Drawing wide inspirations ranging from Ingmar Bergman to Samuel Beckett, ‘FROGSPAWN’ is another step forward towards what Ben hopes is the beginning of his own recognisable style. He is currently developing his a new slate of short films with producers, with an aim to expand on a dreamlike atmosphere and thematic depth.