In an eerie abandoned world where no adults are to be found, a gang of forgotten children plays endlessly repetitive games to gain the favour of Mikhail, the self-proclaimed leader of this strange and isolated society. Rebelling against Mikhail's tyrannical bullying, Emilia, Boris and the bird-like shaman boy Josef devise a plan to escape, twisting the rules to beat Mikhail at his own game.
Adopting the classic conventions of sci-ft, a queer and unconventional story unfolds. Adopting the classic conventions of sci-fi, a queer and unconventional story unfolds. A dystopian fable with a strong anti-bullying message, THE PARTICIPANTS examines the nature of power, mob rule, and the darker side of human group behaviour. Do we choose to bravely participate in standing up for what we know is right? Or do we choose to remain fearfully silent in the face of oppression? THE PARTICIPANTS examines the nature of power, mob rule, and the darker side of human group behaviour. Do we choose to bravely participate in standing up for what we know is right? Or do we choose to remain fearfully silent in the face of oppression?
The script was developed in collaboration with a cast of all children and teenagers. The film was shot in Lough Boora Parklands in the midlands of Ireland, a remarkably beautiful landscape of reclaimed bog-land that serves as a stunning backdrop for this unique story - one which examines how societies condone bullying and the alienation of those perceived as different.
Written by Tim Blue and Paul Rowley based on an original story by Tim Blue. Music by Dennis McNulty and Oberman Knocks. Sound Design Fiadhnait McCann. Art Director Dominique Brennan. Director of Photography Tim Hood. Co-Producer Hello Camera. Trailer by Determined Pictures. Produced by Nicky Gogan. Directed by Paul Rowley.
Funded by a Project award from the Irish Arts Council.
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