Hallam graduate’s new vampire film showcases Sheffield’s dark side

An award-winning Sheffield Hallam graduate and director is preparing to release his latest locally produced film project.

Jordan Kane-Lewis’ All You Do Is Bleed features a teenage girl on a school trip, unaware that the journey will alter her life in a dark way she never expected. When she returns, she must learn to navigate her new normal while battling the everyday struggles of adolescence.

The graduates Studio Silent has produced a portfolio of local films including Nothing Goes, A Touch of Vengeance, and the short film Veined – which premiered in Sheffield at the Spirit of Independence Festival 2022.

When asked about his works, Jordan-Kane told The Sheffield Tab: “Visually, I draw a lot from cinematographers like Christopher Doyle and Benoît Debie, who have very different but impactful styles. I’m especially influenced by original, genre-blending films because they’re more unpredictable and unique than typical genre films.”

The Skins–meets–vampire film is also a debut for 21-year-old Sheffield Hallam actress Isobel Skinner in the lead role of Zoey. On the challenges of taking part in her first film, she told us: “The most challenging part of playing Zoey was portraying the differences between the vampire version of her and her normal self. I loved every minute of it! It was a great challenge.” 

She believes that audiences will connect with her character, saying, “Zoey is a pretty relatable character for a lot of young people. Although the film has a lot of action and horror, it’s also the story of a young girl who feels lost and doesn’t know how to navigate life. 

Most Read

What happened to Belle Gibson’s boyfriend, son and family after her scam in Apple Cider Vinegar

Right, what did Grace *actually* say in those Love Island screenshots and are they real?

Here’s what tragically happened to the anglerfish after it swam to the surface

“I hope people can connect to that human side of Zoey and see her story in the same way that I do.”

When looking for actors, Jordan-Kane usually approaches colleges, acting groups, online pages, and online casting calls. “I don’t always work with the same actors, but I’m fortunate to have a group of people who trust me and enjoy being on set,” he said.

“I like combining recurring collaborators with new actors and non-actors, depending on the project’s needs. A fresh perspective or performance can be really valuable.” 

He advised that aspiring actors should watch for upcoming projects on Studio Silent’s Instagram. 

Those with eagle eyes will spot many iconic Sheffield locations in the stills for All You Do Is Bleed, and Lewis explained that around half of the feature was filmed in and around Sheffield, with the rest in nearby Chesterfield and Dronfield. 

He said, “All [filming locations] were close by and have an S- postcode. They’re definitely recognisable. We kept more to the basics such as the skyline – making Sheffield instantly recognisable.” 

Park Hill Flats, Graves Park, a flat on Cemetery Road, and the Dronfield bypass are among some of the local spots used. 

Ian Hodson, who plays James in the film, said “It was exciting and quite a privilege that I’ve gotten to take part in acting at those locations such as Cemetery Road and Cliff Street flats. 

“I’m excited for people to see if they recognise some of the locations. It definitely puts you in the zone while being on location.”

All You Do Is Bleed is currently in post-production, with plans to premiere the film at the Showroom Cinema in Sheffield in October.

For updates, you can follow All You Do Is Bleed on Instagram or keep an eye on Studio Silent’s website.

Photos courtesy of Jordan Kane-Lewis