Profile: Connor Rathbone

Why did you pick this subject for Fresh?

Archery is the favorite thing in my life and I am proud that my club includes people with and without disabilities who enjoy doing archery together. I am proud to have won lots of medals for my club and wanted to make a film about this as it is such an important thing in my life.

What motivated you to make this film?

I have worked with Beacon Hill Arts - who support filmmakers with learning disabilities - for five years now and been involved in lots of film productions that have been screened all over the world. This project gave me an opportunity to make a film about something very personal to me which is what motivated me to make this film.

What equipment did you use to shoot the film?

I used a Sony HVR-A1E camera with a Vinten Pro Touch tripod and a Senheisser ME66/K6 microphone kit. I made the film with three other filmmakers who have learning disabilities or autism: Stephen Thompson, Phil Coghill and Zosia Feher.

Tell us about post-production:

Stephen, Phil, Zosia and I edited the film with the help of a professional editor who also graded and sound-mixed the film. We used Final Cut Pro 7.

Who/what inspires you?

I am inspired by Peter Jackson and am a big fan of the Hobbit films.

What are your plans for the future?

I want to make more films. I need some support to do this but I think it is very important that people with learning disabilities get the same opportunities to make films as people without learning disabilities as we have important things to say too!

What is the most important thing you have learned so far?

I have learnt that it can take a lot of time and patience to make a film. It is very important to learn how to work with others!