Solar Reels is a film school created and delivered by deaf filmmaking professionals Will Clark and Teresa Garratty and produced by Solar Bear. The programme was developed to address the lack of opportunities for the deaf community to build careers in film and television – a gap reflected in the limited representation both in front of and behind the camera.
Now in its second year, Solar Reels has introduced two major developments:
- A dedicated Film & Screen Lead Officer, Klarissa Webster, whose role is to build connections between the deaf community and the film and TV industry. To connect with Klarissa- klarissa@solarbear.org.uk
- Productions crewed by both deaf and hearing professionals, demonstrating that collaboration and communication can overcome barriers and create inclusive working environments.
Watch our behind-the-scenes documentary to see how this collaboration came to life. CLICK HERE
Special recognition goes to our three talented students—Joe Dunn, Amy Murray and Nicole Kenny—who, in just two weeks, developed, filmed, and edited three short films showcasing creativity and imagination at the highest level. We recommend you take a moment to watch the films and please share near and far.
A massive thank you to Creative Scotland for supporting this project.
As for what is next… watch this space!!!
Nicole Kenny
The Unspoken Path is a tender short film in British Sign Language about love, distance and the things left unsaid. Written and Directed by Nicole Kenny.
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Amy Murray
In the stillness of her living room, a woman on the edge of life slips into a memory where love first began. A dance, a touch, and an invitation blur the line between past and present in this intimate BSL short by debut filmmaker Amy Murray.
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Joe Dunn
The Conversation is a short film in British Sign Language set in Scotland, where memories of a much-loved father are shared with warmth, humour and tenderness.
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Behind the scenes documentary
Our film students – Amy Murray, Joe Dunn and Nicole Kenny – stand next to Klarissa Webster (left), Solar Bear’s Film and Screen Lead Officer, and Will Clark (right), film mentor & DOP.