A Scottish horror comedy about mutant killer midges is moving from a playful idea to a full-scale film production. Fort William-based author and screenwriter Barry Hutchison, known for his crime novels under the name JD Kirk, shared the concept on social media last summer as a joke. The overwhelming response has propelled the project into pre-production, with filming slated for next year.
From Social Media Joke to Cinematic Reality
Who knew a jest could unleash such excitement?
Last summer, Hutchison casually posted his idea for a horror movie featuring Scotland’s infamous midges. To his surprise, the post garnered significant attention, prompting him to consider making the film a reality. Now, casting and location scouting are underway, turning the once lighthearted notion into a serious endeavor.
“It’s wild how quickly things took off,” Hutchison remarked. “The enthusiasm from people was contagious, and it made me think, ‘Why not actually do this?'”
Teaser Trailer Hints at Horror to Come
A tantalizing teaser has been released to whet appetites.
The short trailer, filmed this summer by Glasgow-based filmmaker Alessio Avezzano, offers a glimpse into the chaos that mutant midges might unleash. Featuring two hikers encountering a terrified scientist and a lab under siege, the teaser was shot partially in Balloch Country Park, West Dunbartonshire.
Avezzano shared some behind-the-scenes challenges:
- Weather Woes: Overcast skies during scouting turned to unexpected sunshine on filming day.
- Crowd Control: An influx of park visitors forced the crew to relocate deeper into the woods.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Despite setbacks, the team aimed to capture the perfect eerie environment.
“Every day we scouted, it was perfect midge weather—damp and gloomy,” Avezzano said. “But when we started filming, it was the sunniest day imaginable!”
Local Talent and Expertise Join Forces
Scottish companies are playing a significant role in the film’s production.
| Company | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Motif Studios | Provided visual effects expertise, known for work on a ‘Mad Max’ film |
| Blazing Griffin | Offered digital entertainment services and support |
Their involvement underscores a commitment to showcasing Scottish talent both in front of and behind the camera.
Overcoming Industry Hurdles
The path to production hasn’t been entirely smooth.
Global events, including writers’ and actors’ strikes in the US, impacted the project’s timeline and resources. Hutchison noted that they lost their US producer due to these disruptions. However, this challenge redirected the team to focus more on local resources.
“We saw it as an opportunity to make the film even more Scottish,” Hutchison explained. “It’s about embracing what we have here.”
Battling Real Midges During Filming
The irony isn’t lost on the crew.
Planning to shoot during the Scottish summer means contending with real-life midges—the tiny, biting insects that plague residents and visitors alike. These pests are notorious in the Highlands, especially on mild, damp evenings.
- Natural Nuisance: Swarms can number in the millions.
- Impact on Filming: Cast and crew will need to take precautions.
- Art Imitating Life: The presence of actual midges adds a layer of authenticity.
“We’re making a film about killer midges, and we’ll be surrounded by the real thing,” Hutchison laughed. “It’s both fitting and a bit daunting.”
A Celebration of Scotland with a Horrific Twist
The film aims to be more than just scares.
Director Avezzano emphasized that the horror comedy is also a celebration of Scottish culture and landscapes. By filming in locations like the Scottish Highlands, the movie will showcase the country’s natural beauty alongside its legendary pests.
“It’s a love letter to Scotland, wrapped in a thrilling and comedic package,” Avezzano said.
