A TEENAGER has been behind the camera for a film about child abuse, which will be appearing on the Big Screen next month.

Darren Potter, 16, who put together his own production team last year, called Infinite 8 Productions, has been working as director of photography on a short film about the effects of child abuse.

A premiere for the film, which was written and joint directed by Steve Ware, will take place at the Empire Cinema, in Greenbridge, on May 17.

“This was something that I wanted to bring to life and tackle as I’m only 16 myself,” he said.

“I felt that I wanted to make more people aware of what happens behind closed doors also to help people who may have been through this terrible ordeal themselves.”

“Being the DOP on the project was physically and mentally challenging.

“I found what I was filming powerful and sometimes upsetting to see what can actually happen in children’s lives.

“The whole of the cast and crew worked endlessly until we finished filming. Some of the production team did research on this hard subject to make sure that what I was filming through the camera was the right story and was portrayed in the right way.

“While doing the research we also found many child abuse cases are never found, as the child is too scared to tell anyone.”

The film, which is called Mr Wiggles, is now in post-production but has already received a nomination at the British Short Screenplay Competition.

Darren and his team worked alongside Dreambase Studios, and joint director, Stephanie Palmer, on the film.

Brother and sister Hope and Ryan West play the main characters.

“I feel that the film will help to raise awareness of the subject and what goes on sometimes in children’s lives. I want to help children also others that may be affected by this subject in any way I can,” said Darren.

Tickets for the premiere are £5. A fundraising night, which they are asking local bands to play at, will take place for children’s charities on April 21 at the Supermarine Club, in South Marston. Tickets for the fundraiser cost £5, which includes raffle tickets. For information visit www.mrwigglesfilm.co.uk.