Set in London's Somali community, Black Money aims to break down cultural stereotypes and broaden audience's attitudes towards the history and culture of this underrepresented group.

Our story explores themes of grief, despair and the effects of PTSD, and how they influence the lives of a refugee family and the decisions they're forced to make.

Written as a stand-alone short film that introduces a diverse and complex cast of characters, the story also serves as a proof of concept for a feature-length narrative that explores the themes and plot in greater depth.

Here is an interview with Jay Junior, our lead actor/producer, discussing the themes and messages of the film in greater detail.

"I came up with the idea for Black Money as a way to express my personal journey. In the process, I hope to create a film that will inspire others to overcome challenges in pursuit of their dreams, especially the Somali & BAME Community, as well as those with disabilities."

With a degree in business studies, Jay went to the Court Theatre training company to train as an actor and has since appeared in films, commercials and TV. Training and further development as an artist is constantly kept up so that Jay can reach new levels and leave a legacy. Jay has had to overcome autism, PTSD and other personal demons in pursuit of being an artist.

"At first look, Black Money is a dramatic story about a man, Abdi, suffering from a deep-rooted PTSD. Through the narrative, we witness the choices he faces as he attempts to satisfy his family and fulfil his neglected potential. But as we dive deeper, we realise Abdi’s troubles are shared by his family and offer a reflection of the unseen, untold and overlooked hardships that beset refugees all over the world.​"

Alexander Osman is a multi-award-winning writer and director on a mission to explore the darker side of the human psyche through moving, character-driven narratives that challenge societal and cultural stereotypes with the ultimate goal of revealing the innate light in us all.

"Conflict between family members due to mental health problems drew me towards this project. The opportunity to help raise awareness of PTSD and its effects on those experiencing it were key factors in my decision to be part of Black Money."​

Gene Dolders runs a community interest media production company, working with social enterprises and charities in the North West of England. Providing high-end production value for clients that would normally be unable to afford it.

"I believe that Black Money has the potential to be a fantastic film due to how it covers so much in such a subtle, yet effective, way. It's a script that isn't afraid to say something and it really explores the characters well."

Shortly after graduating from university in engineering, Guy decided to pursue his passion for film. He threw himself into the industry and worked across many roles until he founded Gatton Films, a production company through which he directs and produces content designed to push the envelope of storytelling.

So far we already have a decent amount of the budget secured through both private investment and funding bodies. While this is enough to make the film to a good standard, we want to make it to a great standard to really do the story justice. This is why we are running this campaign to help us to take Black Money to the next level.

The budget, once completed, will be distributed into key areas of the production in order to maximise its effectiveness. This includes crew and cast (making sure they are paid) and getting the best equipment we can.

Money is also set aside for post-production and distribution. We are very aware that the shoot itself is only a part of the puzzle and so making sure that the film is edited, graded and sound designed to a high standard is of upmost importance to us.

We are so close to achieving the goal, and need your help to raise the last of the funds and get there! We really believe that this is a fantastic short film and that the sky is the limit for it.

Thank you.