Inside The Cloud

Inside The Cloud is a mystical, coming-of-age short film about how we see NZ folklore today. It was shortlisted by the NZ Film Commission last year; since then we have been working on the story and we're now ready to head into production. 

The film

Three young adults on a tramp discover that they have different truths about the creatures of the forest. The film explores different world-views that co-exist today, and how they collide - it starts a conversation about how sometimes a western world view can erode traditional belief systems, social ecologies and the natural environment. How each unique view is important and a part of our culture today.

Why it's important

The film raises our awareness of the damage we do by simply walking on ground - physical, and conceptual. It is important for all of us to connect to our own roots, and realise that we are more than we think; we can have more impact - for good or bad - than we suppose. Maybe when we become more conscious we can change the way we relate so that we can all find a sustainable way to live together. Treating the forest and the human differences of perspective with respect.

Instead of passing judgement or taking sides, the film is designed to get people thinking, discussing and exploring. It's also a powerful vehicle for three young, very talented and totally awesome actors to showcase what they can do. In the end it leaves the audience with a feeling of liberation and purpose. My hope is that this will be able to go to New Zealand film festivals, and that we have made something that has a bigger message through one little story of these three young adults in NZ bush. 

I really believe and want to talk about the more unsung beliefs that exist today. In the words of Alan Rickman, "it's a human need to be told stories. The more we're governed by idiots and have no control over our destinies, the more we need to tell stories to each other about who we are, why we are, where we come from, and what might be possible." 

Our team

Composer Ewan Clark and Taonga Puoro Composer Rob Thorne are helping with the Music composition and production, we have a wonderful DOP Jessica Charlton and costume designer Charlotte Kelleher from CKFilmdesign. These are some of the key players in creating this visual work with me. This film has been written by Hanna Vel with Tremain Strickland. 

Check out Kawakawa (Supporting actor in Inside The Cloud) who was nominated for Best Regional Actor in our film The Super Galactic Space Cadets, which was a Grand finalist in the 2017 HP 48 Hours Film Competition. This film also won best regional Female Director for Wellington and best regional Screenplay. Check out our film Spirit also written by Hanna Vel, which went on to win the analogue film challenge Super8x8. Spirit was made on one reel of Super8 film with no post production. 

You can play a part

Your donations will be used for:

- Paying for our 4 days of shooting. 
- Catering for the cast and crew.
- Hireage costs of gear including lights, rigs and camera hire.
- Accommodation and flights for key members traveling from Auckland.
- Hireage of 3 campervans. 
- Wages for Actors. 

We have sponsorship that is lending a huge helping hand, but without extra funds for the above costs this film will not be possible. Your support will make a huge difference to us. If you can donate, we will make sure to have your name in the credits to say a big thank you for your donation. And if I see you, I will make sure to say thank you in person. To follow Inside The Cloud check out our Facebook or our #insidethecloudfilm or check out our mood clip Asha

If we can exceed our target, the additional funds will help with post production costs. If we can raise $18,000 I will be able to use my love for analogue filmmaking too! We will update you as our campaign progresses. 

Any extra funds will also help with:

- Special Effects 
- Voice over work
- Sound Design
- Colour grade
- Music composition and production

Thank you for your time in reading this, if you would like to contact me please do so through my website. 

Ashley Williams
http://www.ashleyjaynewilliams.com/