Tom Bateman Quail

After making my first home video at 8 years old, filmmaking became a passion of mine. I soon realized I couldn't do anything else but create. Along that path I have looked and studied many creators, but none hold as much significance to myself then Ken Loach and Lynne Ramsay. Their craft and creation can masterfully weave varied social political and cultural themes into gripping, humorous, lucid but realistic stories that are both truthful and mesmeric in viewing. They have pushed the boundaries for what is possible for Scottish film and their giant footsteps are some I want to follow.

Much of my current inspiration comes from the stories of those around me, particularly the experiences of the children I meet through being raised as part of a foster family. A rewarding role, fostering has allowed me to meet people from all walks of life and expanded my ability to empathise and truly understand human beings. Furthermore, the experience of the working class in Glasgow has pushed me to a place of absolute need to tell those stories. I truly believe it's imperative that people get to see and make stories about themselves to deepen and further the art form in Question, otherwise (and in some instance has already) become a closed shop for the elite of this country.

I have written and directed 5 films. The first being a documentary on friend of mine who is a graffiti artist in Glasgow. It centres around himself and how the art effects his life mentally and physically. From there I learnt how to compose a scene and choose the shots that create right narrative. From there I developed my first short non-factual film. This was film inspired by true events about a man who has an OCD breakdown during his morning routine. I felt deeply compelled to create this film as it's a topic and a mental health stigma that has affected myself but also male family members. The directors cut of the film is now under consideration for an RTS award. I also created a Female monologue. A film I had less than a week to write, direct and edit. I have subsequently gone on to write and direct another short-called HOME, which is a 7-minute one shot between a Glasgow couple having a domestic argument encased in a surrealist setting and environment. Then most recently I shot a film with my good acting friend Molly Geddes about a personal reflective story of a woman's relationship to a razor blade reflecting self-care, body image sexual image pressure.

All have taught me the same invaluable lessons whether it be in pre, post or during production. Give your trust to both actor and crew, embolden them to be creative and improvise, listen to their ideas but do not control them, be collaborative and from there you will get the truth for character and impactful story for the film.I believe all should be able to enjoy film regardless of their background. I would like to demonstrate to others that despite having no connections in this industry, it is possible to work in film. I relish the opportunity to create stories that can entertain but also empower and educate which this film commission would allow me to do such.