The upcoming medieval drama King of the Iron Will is set to make its world premiere at the HollyShorts Film Festival. The project, which is written entirely in Shakespearean language, offers a fresh take on classical storytelling through a contemporary lens.
The film follows King Baron, played by Liam James Collins, as he confronts the tyrant King Draven, portrayed by Charlie Creed-Miles. The narrative centers on a tense battle of words that explores themes of revenge, power, and the danger of becoming the very thing one seeks to destroy. The production was personally financed by Collins, who also served as a writer, producer, and executive producer on the project.
This independent production marks a significant milestone for Collins, who developed the film as a personal artistic statement. By utilizing Shakespearean language, the project aims to challenge perceptions of who classical storytelling belongs to, framing it through a working-class perspective. The film was directed by Scott Vickers, known for his work on the feature Matriarch.
A Cinematic Confrontation
Filmed on location at two historic Scottish castles, the production emphasizes both scale and intimacy. Vickers worked closely with Collins to ensure the film balances its epic historical setting with a character-driven focus. The visual style and performances are designed to highlight the emotional weight of the confrontation between the two kings.
The supporting creative team includes cinematographer Robbie Jones, editor T.W. Leshner, and art director Ellen De Faux. The film also features period costumes from Angels Costumes and a musical score by Lady Maisery with Jimmy Aldridge and Sid Goldsmith. The premiere at HollyShorts serves as the first public showcase for this ambitious independent effort.
For more information on the festival, visit the official HollyShorts Film Festival website.
