Writing for Fun
April 2021
The Film Maker - Diane Silverston
'Quiet please.'
'Lights. Camera. Action!'
That was the start of the make believe, the fantastic, awe-inspiring world of the movies.
Joshua sat, crouched under his father’s chair, mesmerised at this incredible world opening up in front of him. Historical stories coming alive in front of his eyes. He hardly dared to blink in case he missed something.
'Cut.'
His father’s voice rang out over the area spread out there, a medieval castle with flags flying on the many turrets. Knights in their shining armour, on their horses, with their heraldic coats of arms giving so much colour to the scene.
'Much too slow, we need to go again. Quickly before the light changes.'
'Quiet please.'
'Lights. Camera. Action!'
Once again the view Joshua could see became a bewildering mixture of colour, noise and movement. Joshua crouched further under that special chair, reserved for The Director, such an important man, a leader, a man of decision, a man to be listened to and obeyed. So different to how Joshua knew him at home. His Dad, a caring, quiet, cheerful, helpful support. But now he was a force to be reckoned with.
The story progressed, Joshua watched as the scenes changed, people altered their presence as they changed their costumes. Beautiful, elegant ladies became the focal point, as a medieval banquet took place, dancers and jesters entertaining the Royal party and their courtiers.
Joshua got stiff crouched there but didn’t dare move, he didn’t want to spoil the moment.
'Cut.'
'That’s a rap.'
'Thank you everyone, well done.'
'It’s in the can.'
Joshua’s father’s voice brought him back to the present.
Suddenly all those knights and ladies became just ordinary people as they discarded their costumes, and changed back into their own clothes. The magic had gone, except in Joshua’s memory.
Suddenly a large hand stretched down and pulled him from under the chair.
'Come on Josh, time to go home.'
There he was, walking beside his father, not the director any more, just his Dad.
Behind him lights were going out and a quiet calm came over the scene.