KESWICK is set to be the backdrop for a new short film starring renowned actor Amelia Clarkson. 

EVOL, which is set to start filming in August, will cast Amelia, famous for her roles in Netflix's The Last Kingdom and BBC's Red Rose, alongside actor Fabian Secon.

Created by Australian writer and director Hayley Reeve, known for her award-winning film This is Zoe, the film navigates the world of a young woman named Dolly (played by Amelia), haunted by past relationships and on a journey of self-discovery.

“I contacted my director of photography Katie Edwards, we worked together on Mind Body and Soul," Hayley said. 

"I showed her this specific script, Katie grew up in Keswick – she showed me pictures and said why don’t we bring the script to Cumbria. 

"The short film has a lot of water symbolism, so I wanted a location to reflect that and Keswick is the perfect location.

"The Lake District has all the beautiful mountains, just having the contrast would highlight the themes in the script," she said. 

Writer and director Hayley ReeveWriter and director Hayley Reeve (Image: Supplied)

She believes the film, though primarily touching on women's issues, will resonate with a broader audience.

“For me, this is my personal story and the story of people I know.

"It’s directed towards women but I feel everyone can relate.

"It’s about being able to come into your own, your own self-worth, and go into a relationship in that sense.

“I really love Amelia as an actor, I was super happy when she was on board. I believe she’ll embody Dolly immensely well," she said. 

To fund the project, Hayley and her team aim to raise approximately £6,000 to cover costs including insurance, crew payments and production value enhancements.

"It goes towards insurance, and crew and helps elevate the production value," she said. 

"We also want a medical person onboard with a lot of water involved – there’s so many factors.

"But we only have so much budget to work with so it would really help us out a lot."

Supported by producer Deborah Sweeney from Eden Film, the film aims to highlight both the talent and diverse filming locations available in Cumbria.

"When Hayley contacted me I was happy to support her and produce the film, put together a local crew of professionals and promote filmmaking in Cumbria as we have so much talent here and so many diverse places to film," Debbie said. 

EVOL, produced by Harp On Production and Kino Original Short Film, welcomes potential contributors at www.indiegogo.com/projects/evol-a-romantic-short-film#/.