Director's Statement : (Sequel)

In this sequel, originally a trilogy, set against the backdrop of 19th-century Britain and the present day, I explore the intertwining destinies of characters through the discovery of 1800s journals. A red thread serves as a symbolic reminder of their enduring connection, navigating societal constraints, inspired by Chinese mythology.

The red thread, deeply rooted in East Asian beliefs, represents the unbreakable bond between Mia and Ammy. Originating from Chinese legend, it signifies the concept that destined individuals are connected by an invisible thread, emphasising fate's power. This idea transcends lives, highlighting the interconnectedness of all living beings. The inspiration for the red thread comes from the Korean TV series "Tomorrow," where it explores love, fate, and the transformative power of destiny.

The apple inspiration came from the idea of number 28, in by "Portrait of a Lady on Fire," becomes a significant symbol in the film's storyline. Although the third film is canceled, the emphasis on apples and their special memories for Mia and Ammy remains integral in the first film and the second film

As a director, I aim to showcase diverse perspectives in relationships, particularly within the challenges of same-sex dynamics during the 1800s. Drawing from personal experiences, this sequel reflects my creative and cathartic journey to self-acceptance. Celebrating the diversity of modern relationships, the films focus on the beauty and authenticity of same-sex connections. By centring on a same-sex relationship, we aim to provide identification and validation, promoting pride, acceptance, and understanding. 

As an Indian who grew up in the UK from the age of 10, I felt a stronger connection to British culture for this specific story, given the more accepting attitude towards LGBTQ+ in Britain compared to India. Adapting to the UK culture, I made the decision to set the film in Britain, aligning with my personal experiences and the story's themes.

Director's Statement : 

In this sequel, I made a creative decision as both the writer and director to present the film from different perspectives. 'Thread: My Rose' is the first film which primarily focuses on Mia's viewpoint towards Ammy and the happy side of a relationship. Mia, being the daughter of a wealthy man in the 1800s, is independent, well-educated, and unafraid to take the initiative. The narrative reflects Mia's open expression of feelings and her active role in the relationship, portraying the positive aspects of their connection.

To emphasise the contrast in perspectives, the film is divided into different costume styles. Present-day Mia envisions herself as the Mia from the past who wrote the journal, depicted as a bold and confident character. In contrast, Ammy is imagined as a cute, shy maid with limited dialogue, highlighting the perspective Mia had of her in 1888.

A humorous element introduced in the film is the apple tree. While personally, I didn't know what an apple tree looked like until researching, it became an inside joke in the film. The choice to attach apples to an oak tree is intentional, symbolising the imaginative nature of 1888 as envisioned by Mia in the present. The film represents Mia's creative interpretation rather than a historical reality.

Synopsis:

The short film centres around Mia, an 18-year-old in the present, who stumbles upon old journals in a vintage bookstore. As Mia reads the entries, she envisions herself as the writer, recounting events from 1888. Alongside her imagination, Ammy, a maid, becomes a significant part of the narrative.

In this shared vision of the past, Mia and Ammy's friendship deepens through moments of teaching, exploration, and shared experiences. In the present, Ammy takes the green journal from the pile of brown journals. The film concludes with Mia and Ammy reading another journal in the vintage bookstore.

Genre:

Romance, Historical Drama, Coming-Of-Age and Fantasy.

The Cast:

Amelia Jany as Mia Smith 
Katy Harper-Galloway as Ammy Rose

The Crew:

Writer and Director : Melfin Pereira 
Producer : Pranti Wadhwa
Director of Photography : Marc Nickl 
Production Designer : Han Carbery
Costume and Makeup : Nikki Tangen
Sound Recordist : Donna Ann Cyril
Narration Sound Recordist : Enrique Kisten
Sound Designer and Composer : Peter
Editor : Juliano Hassoun
1st Assistant Director : Richard Sobieski
Assistant Camera : Qinglong Liu
Gaffer / Grip : Kurush N. Dhondy
Boom Operators : Enrique Kisten
Colourist : Marc Nickl
Casting Director : Samuel James Thomson
Production Assistant : Samuel Goulding 
Unit 2 Sound Recordist : Samuel Goulding 
Unit 2 Assistant Camera : Kurush N. Dhondy 

Shoot Date: 

10th - 14th July 2023 (1800s)
30th August 2023 (2020s)

Completion Date:

N/A

Release Date:

14th February 2025

Social Media Presence : 

Awards: N/A

Nominee :

N/A