From the film-maker:

The dominant sombre, minimalist colour palette, contrasted with the light cutting across from the window high on the wall, invited this film to enter the dark sides of the human psyche. Questioning the morality of right and wrong, of stolen innocence and painful secrets, it expresses above all the struggle for freedom from abuse (white) and forgiveness from guilt (ochre) against the vice of psychological/physical abuse (dark umber). The dark silhouette on the side outlined by the strong backlight motivated the expression of the conflict between innocence and guilt which the film deals with. Influenced by true events, this became an intense, moving drama, reflecting flaws in a family environment that lead a mother to commit an altruistic, violent act to protect her child from further abuse. This film was shot on location at Dennis Severs' House in Spitalfields, thus allowing a genuine, powerful period look, which amplified the captivating, secretive atmosphere the painting inspired.

Stefana Brancastle

A piece inspired by Follower of Rembrandt, A Man seated reading at a Table in a Lofty Room, about 1628-30