Writer/Director - Cathrin Blickling

Cathrin has been directing for the last seven years. Her experience lies in a number of different fields in the arts including theatre, opera and of course film. For Cathrin it is all about the story and a common thread to her work is the line between imagination and the reality, which again is present in this film.

Cathrin loves working internationally with a huge diversity of artists. Her experience has taken her to places including London, L.A. Vienna, Sydney and now also Melbourne

Director’s Statement

I come from a background where I like to draw many different art forms together in order to tell a story that is deep, moving and compelling. In the past I have done this in theatre, opera and film and I am very excited to now be able to also do this for this feature film The Jailer Within.

Like much of my work I love to play with the line between imagination and reality. What makes this film unique, while being a psychological thriller that addresses domestic violence and mental health, is the way the imaginary world will be brought to life.

To create the imaginary world that Sophia is both escaping to as well as fighting, I will be combining different art forms including circus and in particular working with CIRCA, and their artistic director, Yaron Lifschitz.

Symbols that drive the film forward will be created in collaboration with visual artists and music will also play a key factor to bring to life a world that is full of mystery, magic and secrets.

Although dark, truthful and frightening, this story is filled with magical moments, creatures and fun adventures, driven by the innocence and boundlessness of a child's mind and the love that two people can have for one another.

WE TAKE OUR MESSAGE SERIOUSLY

Domestic Violence and Mental Health are two big themes presented in this film. Both of these themes are of huge importance and in our view come with a big responsibility. For this reason we are working very closely with psychologists, social workers and other experts in this area as well as organisations such as The Prince's Trust. By talking to them, interviewing them and collaborating, we broaden our knowledge and work with accuracy as well as spread a message to the public.

Our aim is to get more people to start talking about these issues, highlight how large an issue domestic violence is, and make mental health less taboo.

With awareness comes change and what better way than media and film to bring this awareness.

People are affected through stories, and learn new perspectives, and it is the story of Sophia that we want to ripple through the world.