Radiohead to feature in new homelessness film produced by Oscar winner

Published by 24publishing for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Local Government

A film raising awarness about homelessness and featuring the music of Radiohead is set to premiere in April.

England has seen a 23% increase in rough sleeping in just 12 months, and in London alone, nearly 4000 people were reported sleeping rough during 2010/11.

The Truth About Stanley, a heartfelt drama set on the streets of London, will raise money for social enterprise The Big Issue Foundation and homelessness charity Anchor House.

Oscar-winning, Trademark Films, is the executive producer of the short film, which stars acclaimed Kenyan actor Oliver Litondo.

The Truth About Stanley also stars 12-year-old Raif Clarke and Andrew Lee Potts - who played the lead role in ITV’s Primeval.

It was shot in five days in locations in and around central London in early December 2011.

The film features the song “Give up the Ghost” by Radiohead alongside an original score by composer Jack C. Arnold.

Lucy Tcherniak, who won the 2008 Smoke and Mirrors 48 Hour Film Challenge for her film I Stood Up, has directed the 20-minute film.

A 60 second trailer for The Truth About Stanley has just been released online.

There will be a fundraising premiere at 7pm on the 2nd April 2011 at the Rich Mix cinema in Shoreditch, London.

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP whose corporate responsibility department has provided the funding for the movie will host the event.

Big Issue chief executive Stephen Robertson said: “We live in challenging times. From our perspective we know that homelessness is on the increase. This film offers a unique opportunity to lift the lid on some of the stereotypes that are all too frequently associated with extreme disadvantage.

“It is gratifying to see the arts, corporate and charity sectors uniting to bust a few myths. We are delighted to be involved in this project and for the support and awareness that it will raise.”

Anchor House director Keith Fernett said: “We need to disperse the stigma surrounding homelessness and this film could very well be a powerful tool. People need to realise that despite who we are or where we started out in life anyone of us could be at risk of being homeless.

“We are very grateful to be part of this project and for all of the support being given to our charity.”