Spectrum Synopsis

"Spectrum" is a powerful psychological drama that explores the devastating effects of miscarriages of justice through the experiences of two protagonists, Joshua Chambers and Mariah Carson. Mariah has been a victim of sexual assault and Joshua has been falsely accused of a crime. The film takes a close look at how both characters navigate their trauma and the ways in which their lives have been irreversibly changed by the criminal justice system's failures. 

As Joshua and Mariah come together to share their experiences, they find themselves struggling to come to terms with the injustice they have faced. The film delves deep into the emotional turmoil that both characters experience and how it has affected their lives, relationships, and sense of self. Through their stories, "Spectrum" highlights the complexities and nuances of the criminal justice system and how it often fails to protect and serve victims. 

The film is a searing indictment of a system that allows perpetrators to walk free while victims are left to suffer in silence. With its powerful performances and thought-provoking storyline, "Spectrum" is a timely and important film that sheds light on the urgent need for systemic change in the criminal justice system. 

Meet The Team 

Jonell Rowe: Writer, Director and Co-Producer

Jonell Rowe is a London and Bristol-based independent writer, director and editor who first ventured into the arts through studying drama and fine art, at The BRIT School of performing arts. After graduating in 2011 with both a BTEC National and extended diploma in drama, Jonell went on to complete writers' course at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre in 2012 and along with other creatives, founded the production company "Lionstooth films". His style of work focuses on emotions spiralling out of control, affecting an individual's actions, which in turn affects the world around them. Jonell has gone on to write and direct 16 short films that have been recognised by industry professionals and won awards such as Best narrative short film at the Hollywood Sun film awards in October 2017.
 

Director's statement 

I want to create a film, which sheds a light on the failures of the criminal justice system and highlight how victims of false allegations of sexual assault and victims who have experienced sexual violence have been repeatedly failed by the system, while their perpetrators have been allowed to go free without consequence. This miscarriage of justice, has continued to negatively impact the lives of these respective victims from the opposite ends of the spectrum, resulting in the wrongful imprisonment, convictions and the loss of lives for those who are falsely accused of one of the most monstrous crimes. In contrast, victims of sexual assault, have become too afraid to speak out on their horrific experiences and live in a constant state of Fear of disbelief, of unjustified blame, of retribution, of re-traumatisation. It was from coming across and reading up on numerous real-life events, surrounding both victims' traumatising experiences, that sparked the idea for Spectrum.

In the narrative of Spectrum, I will examine the two-sided experiences of both victims, with the aim of spreading awareness of their respective injustice occurring. The miscarriage of justice cannot continue, and it is time that a change is made for the better.

Moses Ssebandeke is a Writer/Director and Producer His Film “Patient 4318” was screened on National television as well as being screened in Hollywood LA in 2015 at the African American Film market. In 2017 Moses Ssebandeke's script Mary's Room was shortlisted by Creative England to be a part of the Shortflix program Moses has written and directed many award-winning short films. That has been screened on the BBC. He also wrote and directed a BBC Africa/art interactive drama starring Brit award winner Stormzy. Moses recently graduated with a postgraduate diploma in Writing and producing from the BAFTA-winning National Film and Television School. in 2018 Moses won the screen skills short film award for his short film "Reflection" This film was screened at BFI (The British Film Institute) His other short film "distance" was screened in Budapest and won the "Channel 4 values award". Moses’ Graduation Film “Insta Grim” Won the best African Diaspora film at the 23rd African Film awards.

Statement

"I wanted to come onboard as a producer because I wanted to help give a voice to the voiceless. We've had a history of people being victims of injustice and I feel this film sheds light on that disparity"

Samuel Mina is an actor and Executive producer, who studied at the BRIT School for performing Arts. He has won multiple awards acting upon the stage and is broadening his experience within the film industry, both on and off screen. 

Statement

“I wanted to get involved in this existing project as I feel that the subject matter, although a tough and sensitive one, needs to be told for others to feel their story is also being told and heard”.

I come from a background of film and media study and a passionate film and TV watcher, especially when it comes to stories that grow awareness of taboo issues and minorities. Also an avid fantasy lover, the last few years my creative streak has progressed in screenwriting as a student at Metfilm School. 

I’m so excited to be an executive producer on ‘Spectrum’ as it’s a story close to my heart and I know too many strong, brave women and men that have had their voice taken away by sexual assault and had no justice.  In my opinion there’s no greater call to action than being able to play a part in steering the conversations that change these circumstances. 

Based in South west of England, Katie has a vast background in the performing arts and the entertainment business. 

Katie has also appeared on screen and worked behind the scenes with film crew in popular TV and Film Productions such as Netflix, HBO, Sky and BBC channels. 

Currently Katie has been focusing on representing and supporting independent artists from around the world via her company ON SET STAR Management.

Statement

While working with Jonell Rowe and getting to know him on a personal level he revealed to me the synopsis of Spectrum, which immediately struck a chord with me and I wanted to help in the creation and delivery of his feature film.

My personal background around my work life has involved me being witness too and being a victim of abuse and struggles with mental health issues.

The story of Spectrum highlights the sinister truth, what I believe is a raw subject that people otherwise overlook in their busy day to day lives. The justice system and media is very quick to falsely identify a goodie and a baddie but it doesn’t take time to investigate the real reason, feeling and emotion of the individuals to fully reveal the real criminal at the heart of the situation.

Spectrum depicts all of this and focus’ on the actions that have ripple effects on the people at each end of the spectrum and more people need to see and understand this side of human psyche, for human betterment, hence my support and involvement.

Sophie Storm K: 1st Assistant Director 

Having grown up in Singapore, Wales, and England, Sophie is a creative who is passionate about
showcasing different voices in her work. Now based in London, She is a freelancer with experience in working on indie feature films and as a floor runner for HETV. She is particularly skilled in working to tight deadlines, problem solving and adapting to new situations. 

Statement

"I was keen to be involved with Spectrum after seeing the care and attention that has gone into the creation of this project and the way that the themes are being explored. It is a thought-provoking story that deserves to be told"

MAIN CAST FOR SPECTRUM

STORY BOARD 

VISUAL LOOK AND TONE OF SPECTRUM

Marketing for spectrum

COVID-19 health and safety 

To ensure the health and safety of both cast and crew is carried out throughout the production a Covid-19 Marshall and supervisor will be consulted and the production itself will work to adhere to the Covid-19 guidelines for film and television productions that the government and the British Film Commission have laid out.