In Another Life
(In Production)
Student
Supernatural/Historical Drama
Directed by Norwegian Director Andrea Støvreide, this twisting tale of the unexpected is set in part, in Nazi occupied Jersey, just post-invasion in July of 1940.
I was called in by Andrea, and producer Elliot New in a multi-role of historical/military advisor, extra, and period propmaker.
I was able to provide the them with detailed information regarding the historical context; the circumstances of the bombing of St Helier, the laws and regulations imposed in what the Germans wished to be a "model occupation", the units present on the island, and advice on correct uniform and weaponry (originally they had intended to use .303 Short Magazine Lee Enfields!)
I also was able to utilise industry contacts to provide two Mauser K98s for the shoot, one deactivated and one rubber, along with the correct M35 'coalscuttle' helmets, a complete Soldat (private's) uniform, and various other elements from boots to ammo pouches.
Two other uniforms were obtained from a local costume hire, these were less accurate, but were out of my jurisdiction by the time I came on board.
I was also able in capacity as propmaker to create a range of paperwork to add that extra something to the 1940s scenes, and underscore the narrative.
Several letters with period dated postmarks and correct, halved British George VI stamps (it was not till later in the war that specific Jersey occupation stamps would be issued) were obtained/created.
Alongside these, two original Jersey Evening Post newspapers (one with the German laws and regulations included on the front), several fishing supply bills, funeral bills, and other assorted paperwork were handmade, with several elements utilising original printing techniques, or typewriter.
One of the more challenging items to re-create was a German fishing permit that had to be obtained to go to sea in 'Reich controlled waters', along with a chaperoning soldier.
This was created from scratch in German, with replicated stamps and staining from having a tea mug placed on it.
One particular challenge was in spite of numerous reassurances that the director wanted everything dated 1941 (which seemed odd at the time), they really wanted everything dated for 1940. This had to be done with 24 hours notice, but was managed!
I was further employed as an extra to portray one of the Wehrmacht soldiers in the film. I advised on the inclusion of correct German language to add an air of realism, along with the way officers and men would have borne themselves/acted.
Naturally as with even the biggest Hollywood blockbusters, comprises were required in some instances for dramatism.
The film's completion is currently on-hold, due to the director's other commitments, but is hoped to continued at some point in the future.