TUNA

A short film · Currently in post-production

A fisherman and his daughter await rescue after becoming stranded at sea. As his daughter prepares to leave home and begin a life of her own, the fisherman becomes increasingly consumed by the idea of catching a mythical species of fish. In a desperate attempt to hold on to the curiosity, connection and sense of wonder they once shared, the quest could threaten to bring them closer together or drive them further apart.

The film will star acclaimed North East actor, writer and stand-up comedian Dave Johns in the lead role of Arthur, a fisherman grappling with change and obsession. Johns is best known for his breakthrough performance in Ken Loach's BAFTA winning I, Daniel Blake (2016), which earned him the BIFA Award for Best Actor, as well as his role in the comedy-drama Fisherman's Friends (2019).

Production is scheduled to take place at Roker Marina in Sunderland, with filming predominantly aboard Serenity. We are committed to working with local talent and crew, helping to capture the authenticity, spirit and hidden beauty of the region on screen.

We're lucky to have friendly Sunderland fisherman, Davey and his gorgeous red fishing boat 'Serenity' for the film. We were able to go out to sea on Serenity recently and though the sight of Dolphins leaping above the water was something to behold, the feeling of being out on the expansive ocean, not knowing what lurks below, is something that keeps me fascinated.

Project notes by director James Hastings.