A young Erith filmmaker is flying to Ghana to shoot and finish his debut film, House Girl.
Director Koby Adom, 25, of Maynards Close, is launching the premiere short film to make visible the often untold and biased histories surrounding the British diaspora in mainstream culture.
As part of his £15,000 graduation project, Mr Adom is creating House Girl - a filmic interpretation of domestic abuse that his mother witnessed growing up in Accra.
Set in the vibrant and bustling capital city, British-born character Jennifer - who is of Ghanaian descent - intends to holiday with her rich aunt in Ghana, but soon discovers it’s not all paradise.
Koby Adom attends the prestigious London Film School
Speaking to News Shopper about the cinematic process, Mr Adom said: “It is a lot of hard work but I have an opportunity and I want to take it.
“I remember certain parts of Ghana - I lived there for a year when I was eight-years-old and went back in August.
“Being part of the diaspora, I am exploring as I go - I’m trying not to be a Western filmmaker - I am trying to reconnect with the African side.”
The ambitious film project, which has gained £5,000 in funding so far, intends to explore complex issues surrounding different cultural identities in just 15 minutes - one such challenge the short film art form demands.
There is only one day left to make your donation to help fund House Girl
Mr Adom said: “With a short film you have to look at the story and concentrate on the key points - you have to capture the spirit of it.
“You’re really posing a question and allowing the audience to come with their own interpretations.”
Seen through the eyes of the protagonist, House Girl includes the story of a domestic maid called Efua and her struggles under Jennifer’s rich aunt in Ghana.
The artist - who attends the prestigious London Film School - is hoping to raise the additional funds needed to complete the film for April.
Mr Adom said: “Things are happening.
“I have big plans and big films to make but you have to keep it going.”
To find out more about the artist click here.
To learn how you can take part in the project and contribute to the film's Kickstart crowd funding click here.
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