TOAST is available on YouTube from October 7th.
Outline: After a young man befriends a grumpy elderly neighbour by doing their their weekly grocery shopping throughout lockdown, they form an unlikely friendship that changes them both.
The film stars Roger Sloman (Nuts in May, EastEnders) and up and coming actor Harry Walters. The film was produced by UK production company Room 18 Films.
The film celebrates it’s UK Festival Premiere on the 9th October at Everyman King’s Cross for BIFA Qualifying Little Wing Film Festival in London. The film has been nominated for 3 awards at the National Youth Film Awards for Best Screenplay, Editing & Lead Actor.
Starring Roger Sloman & Harry Walters
Benedict Webb, who directed and edited the film, said the film was inspired by the events of lockdown and the idea of intergenerational friendship.
“Lockdown was definitely the catalyst for the story. It was a strange and difficult time for everybody, and I think it made a lot of us re-evaluate things happening in our lives. Ultimately, I think we wanted to make a film about looking out for one another, and unlikely friendships, especially with those you wouldn’t normally expect.
I remember during lockdown, my Mum getting shopping lists from our next door neighbour and would do their weekly shopping. My Dad would do the same for her Nanna. I feel like we bonded over the smallest things, but at the time, they felt massive, especially at a time where your elder relatives couldn’t interact with you or see you. Me and Harry thought there could be a story to emerge out of this, one with lightness and comedic relief. I think that’s something we’ve all been eager to see on our screens.”
Available on YouTube from 7th October.
Harry, who co-starred alongside Roger and wrote the film, spoke highly of working with Roger and shooting Toast during COVID.
“Getting to work with Roger was perfect for this story. He’s a remarkable actor and it was truly amazing that he immediately seemed to resonate with the story we were trying to get across.
We wrote the film just before the third lockdown. So it was incredible seeing the film finally come to life on set with Roger and the crew. Even with COVID precautions, we were definitely in a different place to 12 months before. It was quite the cathartic moment.”
Available on YouTube from 7th October.
