Drew cooks Manors in Microwave
Writer/director Ben Drew has begun principal photography for Ill Manors, aka Plan B, at London locations. Being made under Film London and BBC Films’ micro-budget Microwave scheme, it stars Riz Ahmed and Natalie Press.
Ben Drew is best known for his music career with this year’s number 1 hit album, The Defamation of Strickland Banks. Noel Clarke cast him in Adulthood [+see also:
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film profile] and then again in 4.3.2.1. [+see also:
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film profile], and he has also starred opposite Michael Caine in Harry Brown [+see also:
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film profile]. Ill Manors, Drew’s feature directorial debut is a multi-character story set against the tough streets of Forest Gate, East London where everyone is fighting for respect.
Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of Film London said, “Film London Microwave combines creative talent with an entrepreneurial approach, producing British films which can compete commercially in today’s competitive market while also supporting the next generation of film-makers. The scheme continues to attract hugely exciting new talent and I’m delighted that first time writer/director Ben Drew has come on board with ill Manors.”
Microwave’s three completed features Mum & Dad, Shifty [+see also:
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film profile] and Freestyle, have achieved UK theatrical releases and sold well in other territories. The scheme acts as a launch pad for filmmakers’ careers and Eran Creevy, writer/director of Shifty, has secured funding for his next feature, Welcome to the Punch.
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