“Dreamlike, gentle and hypnotic ” - LSFF
The Dead Are Jewels To Me is an intimate experimental film that explores a forensic jeweller’s craft and interrogates whether a new scientific practice could unearth hidden stories that lie beneath a surface.
The Dead Are Jewels To Me takes us into the mind of Dr Maria Maclennan FRSA, who, at age 32, is the world’s first forensic jeweller. There is a common presumption that Maria’s work is like an episode of a CSI drama. Yet Maria’s practice is both subtle and deeply emotive, beyond the singular objective of solving a crime. A practice that opens up questions, new lines of enquiry and narrative potential.
The Dead Are Jewels To Me delves under the surfaces of jewellery to look closely at the meaning behind the tiniest scuff or what an overlooked hallmark could reveal of a person’s life.
Supported by BBC ARTS, LUX SCOTLAND, SCREEN SCOTLAND NOW & NEXT
SCREENINGS
Official Selection LONDON SHORT FILM FESTIVAL, UK Competition 2022
Official Selection GLASGOW SHORT FILM FESTIVAL, Scottish Competition 2022
Preview Screening BBC4, International Women’s Day ‘Women in Film’, March 2021
CREDITS
Written & Directed by Isla Badenoch + Rose Hendry
Co-Written and Introducing Dr Maria Maclennan
Produced by Beth Allan, Forest of Black
Cinematography by Ian Forbes
Edited by Nicole Havola
Sound Design by Mike Bovill, 750mph
Colour Grade by Jessica Vile
Original Music by The Orielles
