Oliver Pearn’s feature directorial debut “On the Line” has been snapped up for U.K. and U.S. distribution by Trinity Creative Partnership and 101 Films.
Set in Alderney, U.K. in 1964, the film follows a telephone operator, Agnes, who ends up being the pivotal piece of a drama unfurling which puts professional integrity and relationships to the test. She finds herself in a deadly standoff and with time running out and the fate of a victim hanging in the balance Agnes must use her ingenuity and courage to navigate a web of lies.
The cast includes Victoria Lucie (“The Devil’s Machine”), Harriet Walter (“Ted Lasso”, “Succession”), and Royce Pierreson (“The Witcher”).
“The profession of the switchboard operator, a vital link connecting individuals, is now consigned to history’s archives. Today, the rise of artificial intelligence is transforming various industries and professions. Here, in 1964 against a backdrop of societal change – a new international phone line – attitudes to female roles and career ambitions swirl,” Pearn says in his director’s statement.
“Inspiration came from working at an international healthcare charity, I was moved by people’s life experience and at this time someone close to me took their life. I created this film in the hope that people feel able to reach out for help without fear or judgement,” Pearn added.
“On The Line” is produced by Nicola Quilter and Pearn. MovieHouse Entertainment is handling international sales.
Trinity Creative Partnership is the distributor behind “Oppenheimer: The Real Story” while 101 Films recently distributed Michael Flatley’s “Blackbird.”
Trinity Creative Partnership’s Andy Taylor said: “We’re excited to be working on the film ‘On The Line.’ We always like to support British independent filmmakers and this film deserves to be seen by as wide an audience as possible.”
The film will premiere at the Newport Beach Film Festival in October.