The actors
Marcel Stoetzler - 'Trench Coat'
With knowledge of Bertolt Brecht's 'verfremdungseffekt', this actor's polyvalent talents add significant weight to the tone of the film. In pre-production discussions with the director, it was agreed that the character would have some subtle outward evidence of autistic tendencies, whilst maintaining a demeanor of equanimity and control.
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Freedom was allowed for Mr Stoetzler to bring his own insight into the journey undertaken by Trench Coat, and his interpretation brought synthesis of the internal and external, to produce the desired psycho-geographical subtext.
Direction during production was deliberately withheld until asked for, and generally amounted to 'stage directions' to ensure efficient cinematography. Director and actor worked symbiotically, with creative suggestions and feedback from Mr Stoetzler incorporated into the action.
Marcel Stoetzler is a founder member of 'Glassglue' and also senior lecturer in sociology at Bangor University.
Alan Holmes - 'The Black Cagoule'
A highly effective foil to the protagonist's endeavours was required to lend conflict to the text. This untrained actor was able to understand and engage with the minimalist narrative, bringing a subtle but menacing presence. Extensive discussions rounded out the character's traits, and once an outfit had been agreed, The Black Cagoule was born.
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23 July 2019 was the hottest day of the year in Wales, but Mr Holmes remained dedicated to the task asked of him, and despite the part requiring the fitness of an athlete, continued to wear his character's signature outfit, even between takes.
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It is regrettable that significant amounts of footage featuring Mr Holmes did not make the final edit. A 'director's cut' may surface, to include Mr Holmes' musical contributions.
Alan Holmes is a respected and prolific contributor to the music scene in north Wales and abroad.