We are looking for a casting director who is maybe starting out and wants the experience of casting their first feature film as this is a micro-budget film. As the film is based on my life, I feel its a great selling point to be in the film but not as myself, I am looking at playing one of the other characters.

I feel that casting is vital for Free, To Be.. and I would be involved with that. Casting is exciting and I think first of all if we can get a few well knowns attached then that would be brilliant. I am also wanting to use a lot of local talent. One of the challenges for me is finding an actor that looks like me and can play from age 12 until 17 but I think it is probably worthwhile looking for two actors that look similar as we see Jamie the protagonist as a baby, aged 11/12 and then 16/17

We have a great team that's like a family and have all worked hard to get to this point. We have already filmed a teaser. (can provide a link on request) We have had a lot of interest from distribution companies and have already had interest from our local cinema to premiere the film.

The story itself is an exciting new film; adapted from my autobiography. This film will be shot on location in Merseyside pooling local talent and expertise.

FREE, TO BE...
Birkenhead, Merseyside - 1980's
Traumatized by the murder of his Uncle, young Jamie's life is troubled during the depression in 1980's North England. A speech impediment, coupled with learning difficulties, cause problems at school and Jamie falls in with the wrong crowd. Drugs, alcohol and petty crime lead to inevitable incarceration. Abused by a shopkeeper and an inability to express himself properly, his future appears bleak. Whilst in prison he chances upon a drama workshop and his life begins to change. Free, To Be follows his struggle from childhood to maturity as Shakespeare and the stage enable him to find a way to make something of his life. A gritty true story of hope's triumph over adversity, a compelling tale, not without humor, based on Christopher Lee- Power's book 'Breaking Free'.
Free, To Be's... screenwriter is Dr. Nick Banford and is announced that Kate Cheesman ( Call the Midwife ) will direct.

At present we are in talks with investors. We have had so much publicity from magazines, newspapers to the BBC. We will film in Wirral and use a lot of local talent including actors. North West.