11-27-2023 2:16pm

Jason Watkins stars and Ian McKellen narrates in George C. Siougas’ OSCAR® and BAFTA Qualifying THE ONE NOTE MAN

Anita Johnson-Brown Editor

George C. Siougas' "The One Note Man" is a heartwarming short film that tells the story of a lonely bassoonist who is caught between staying in his comfort zone or stepping out and changing his life forever. Set during Christmas time, the film takes you on a whirlwind adventure of a bassoonist whose routine never strays, playing a single note in a classical orchestra day in and day out. The film has qualified to be considered for the 2024 Oscars after winning the Grand Prize for Best Live Action Short Film at the Rhode Island International Film Festival. It stars Jason Watkins (The Crown), Louisa Clein (Emmerdale), Crystal Yu (Dr Who), Paul Barber (The Full Monty), and the voice of Ian McKellen (Lord of the Rings).

The story revolves around a bassoonist who lives his life meticulously, mired in routine. Each day, he plays a single note in an orchestra and leaves the stage while the rest continue. One day, his exit is accidentally delayed, and he hears a breathtaking violin solo that changes his life forever.

The film's writer and director, George C. Siougas, is originally from Greece and studied at the London Film School. His debut feature, "Burning Heads," was nominated for eleven Hellenic Film Academy awards, and in 2022, his episode of BBC's "Casualty" was one of four nominated for a BAFTA. George is currently developing a feature-length version of "The One Note Man."

Without a word of dialogue, the film is a centerpiece for an original score composed by the Academy Award-winning composer Stephen Warbeck (Shakespeare in Love, Billy Elliot).

"The One Note Man" is co-produced by UK-based production companies Cusp Films and Moseley Road Productions, along with US-based Verus Studios. It has also qualified to be considered for the 2024 BAFTAs after being selected for the Norwich Film Festival.

Cusp Films is an award-winning UK production company that produces high-quality, gripping drama, which attracts high-profile creative talent. They have rapidly grown their catalog of work and now have several TV and feature film projects in development.

Moseley Road Productions is a UK-based film and television production company aiming to inspire, entertain, and make a positive contribution to the cultural landscape.

Verus Studios, LLC is a female-owned, US-based production studio specializing in genuine and authentic storytelling.

The film's executive producers include Joshua Friedman (formerly of Sony Pictures, 20th Century Fox) and Sean Mathias.

"The One Note Man" provides a delightful insight into the captivating world of Love.

-Anita Johnson-Brown