Abstract

The Empty Throne is a specially commisisoned 'featurette' . A high definition film that was conceived as a living painting, a window into the characters and events leading up to the sealing of Magna Carta by King John in 1215.

I was engaged to create the sound design and mix the soundtrack for the piece. This was an unusual brief as the piece was 48 minutes long and contains sections of distinct action and speech along with sections which were characterised by atmospheric soundscapes, a storm brewing, castle echoes etc etc

The film was directed by Philip Stevens, lecturer in the School of Film and Media.

Stressing the power of the individual and is a call to arms for young artists to make their voices heard. The Empty Throne was shown as part of the multi-­‐faceted 1215.today launch event at Lincoln Castle, where the film was simultaneously projected onto multiple walls inside the castle. Viewers could catch a glimpse of the film as they passed by, perhaps coming across one of the tableaus. A series of dramas unfold.

The production was also distinctive as it developed as a collaboration between staff, students and graduates of the School of Film & Media at the University of Lincoln, working together on a professional shoot to produce a film the University is incredibly proud of. As a key partner of the 1215.today project, who commissioned the film to form a key part of the launch event, the
School of Film & Media is delighted and grateful that the project has provided our students with this invaluable opportunity to extend their skills and expertise – and the intended audience will gain valuable knowledge