Genre: Drama, Romance
Two long-estranged childhood friends, suddenly thrust back into one another’s lives, must grapple with their turbulent history as they unearth and reconstruct the decades-long romance their mothers shared.
CAST LIST:
Narrator: Hugh Ritchie
Young Mother: Lara Amersey
Jamie: Alicia Payne
Get to know the writer:
1. What is your screenplay about?
THE THINGS WE MISS is about two estranged childhood friends who are forced to confront their turbulent history as they unearth and reconstruct the decades-long romance their mothers shared. The story explores themes of forbidden love, motherhood and the loss of identity, the fluidity of female friendships, the inner lives of our mothers, the role of memory and perspective in constructing personal narratives, marriage and commitment, redemption and reconciliation, and the boundaries of true love.
2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?
My screenplay is a contemporary realistic drama, with some comedic elements.
3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
THE THINGS WE MISS features four strong female lead roles as well as a romantic relationship between two women of middle to advanced age, which is rare. It delves deep into the complexity of many types of relationships — friendship, marriage, parent-child, romantic love, etc. — and does not shy away from asking difficult questions. The pacing and unfolding of the story are a departure from the more common formulas often seen in contemporary movies. It relies heavily on character, theme, and dialogue rather than heavy action. The screenplay also features striking visual elements, particularly with Jamie’s photography and Juliet’s paintings which lend themselves nicely to the screen. Most of all, it is a story about truth and the courage to live authentically.
4. How would you describe this script in two words?
complex, evocative
5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
Probably POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE
6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?
Approximately nine months
7. How many stories have you written?
THE THINGS WE MISS is my fourth feature screenplay.
8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)
“Unchained Melody” by the Righteous Brothers.
9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
Tying together all of the themes that the story explores, making my characters both flawed and sympathetic, remaining faithful to each character’s journey
10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
Children, Education, Social Justice, Nature, Travel, Creativity
11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?
FilmFreeway is very user-friendly and efficient, and an excellent source of information on festivals and contests.
12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
I am eager to share this story because I believe it’s one that needs to be told. I was drawn to this festival in particular because I hope my story resonates with LGBT audiences. The feedback I received was excellent! I was honored to receive such thoughtful, thorough, constructive, and encouraging notes and suggestions. I am honored by this opportunity.
Thank you.
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Producer: Matthew Toffolo http://www.matthewtoffolo.com
Director: Kierston Drier
Casting Director: Sean Ballantyne
Editor: Kimberly Villarruel
Camera Op: Mary Cox
LGBTQ+ Toronto Film Festival 