A short film parable on love, loss and child bereavement.
Written & Directed by Ian D. Fleming
Produced by Tyla Sharp
In the 'circle-of-life' our story begins with an ending. 10-year old Genie loses her best friend, her mentor 'Mummy'. Before passing away, her mother picks the very last apple that the raggedy old apple tree in their garden has to offer. The tree has borne fruit through three generations of their family. Mummy gives the apple a friendly face and a name. ‘Mr. Apple’ becomes Genie’s constant companion, a totem, bringing her the comfort of connection to her departed mother.
With Dad struggling to maintain balance through his grief and misunderstanding Genie's bond with 'just a bloody apple!', there is much for them to learn. Together, they find grace, understanding and redemption in their uplifting recovery.
In a child's perception, a parent is there and then suddenly gone, leaving a hole they can't find any way to fill. The parable of Mr. Apple teaches us how we are all connected in the circle of life; that life goes on, that the departed live on in within us.
This is Mr. Apple's positive message of hope.
The Story
the story sprung from childhood…
This is a personal, evocative tale, with a heartwarming message for any child or surviving parent who is feeling lost, confused and left behind when a parent / partner dies. This story sprung from an idea from Ian’s own childhood and from his experiences of fatherhood at the heart of his own family. "So why this short film now?" is a question we’ve been asked.
Ian: "The people who have lovingly pushed me to bring this tale to life are those you see in this deck. It's for them and for bereaved children and parents everywhere that I want to tell this story. I'm so moved that everyone in the team has invested 100% of passionate belief, inspiring me towards bringing Apple to the screen. We all believe in this film and yearn to see it made. We hope you do too!"
Tyla: “In all of my work I strive to tell real stories that capture the heart of many different audiences. Genie’s story needs to be told and I’m so proud to bring this film to life as a creative producer. A smart mix of industry professionals, emerging filmmakers and students will make this film truly beautiful, and bringing it home to Northampton is really special to me. I’m so determined to make this an event, not just a film, but to most importantly share a hopeful story of a bereaved child.”
Genie’s story is very real. It is not melodramatic.
We don't see Mummy die. The 'C' word is never used. It’s a truthful telling of an unavoidably tragic tale that at some time touches most of our lives.
Always remember to wave goodbye.
