We’re not done filming yet, but this is a little something I whipped up in the interim, mainly for our reels (mine and Kat’s). It’s not shot all handheld, Dogma verite-style, as this trailer might suggest. The clips I selected just happen to be handheld ones, as I felt they fit best for this type of teaser. The scenes chosen for this teaser are actually not part of the film proper, but take place within its timeline (don’t mean to be cryptic and vague, but it’s hard to explain without spoiling the plot). Hence, the teaser tag.

At the age of 14 Michelle was raped at knifepoint. However, she was determined to not be seen as a “victim”, instead she has grabbed life by the scruff of the neck and said “come on, i’ve got things to do”.

“Counting Backwards” is a short film based on Michelle’s story. It is heartbreaking, beautiful and ultimately triumphant.

It describes how a young girl, her family and best friend struggle to deal with an awful and tragic event and follows the inevitable echoes that continue to ripple through the next generation.

This is a film about bravery, love and friendship between friends and family.

Geoff Thompson has created a powerful, shocking and deeply moving script which is being directed by Sean de Sparango, mutli award winning director including a Cannes Lion for his Anti-gun crime campaign.
Lucy Speed (Natalie Price in Eastenders, The Bill) plays Michelle in later life.

Kathryn Prescott (Emily Fitch in Skins) she plays the part of Kelly (Michelle’s daughter) in the film.