A new short scifi film turns South Wales into a post-apocalyptic world. And viewers will soon be able to see it online for free.
Annalium 8: Sssss is set in a world where all animal life has been wiped out. But a scientist in full bio-hazard kit and with a life-support machine in tow, discovers a young girl in a forest, apparently fit and well.
Created by Robert Lancey, a writer born and raised in Rhiwbina, Cardiff, the short film was shot in and around the Welsh capital in summer 2022.
After editing and post-production sound design, the film was premiered at Cardiff’s Chapter Arts Centre MovieMaker short film showcase in September 2023.
It was also shown at Rhiwbina’s community cinema, Monico Movies, in October and as a curtain-raiser to The Exorcist at the Newbridge Memo for Halloween.
“The reaction has been fantastic,” said Rob. “One director at the Chapter show said he was ‘blown away’ by it, and we’ve had amazing feedback from the screenings so far.”
He and fellow producer, Andy Weltch, of Weltch Media, have now entered the film in several festivals to reach audiences around the world. Because it has no dialogue, there’s potential for global appeal, and the script has already been recognised in several competitions.
Directed by Andrew ‘Griff’ Griffin, Annalium 8: Sssss stars award-winning Francesca Louise White and introduces Minaii Baelfire, who has the distinction of being the first Black young Elsa in a stage production of Frozen.
The film, which is just under nine minutes long, is due to be released online on Thursdsay December 7th at 7pm GMT.
From that date, you can see the film free on the Weltch Media YouTube channel here.
