The Programme Film

They are here to learn your emotions... whatever it takes...
The Programme is about who we are and our understanding of neurodivergence and the idea of seeking a “typical existence”. Michelle Jeram plays the non binary and neurodivergent lead character of Drum - “Subject 3756A/b1” who has been chosen out of 4.3 million profiles to be interviewed by ‘The Programme’, - an organisation of emotional intelligence robots, on the subject of loneliness.
Throughout the film, Drum,an ex police officer, delves deeper into their world, and we are reminded of our connections and perception of belonging, choice and identity within an increasingly disconnected world. As we learn more about the research of ‘The Programme’ we question our current reality and what could so easily be our historical artificial future…

Log Line - "A non binary and neurodivergent ex cop is interviewed ruthlessly about loneliness and grief by 'The Programe", an artificial emotional intelligence organisation, to teach its 'robots' how to feel.

Audiences find the prosaic dialogue immerses them in the intricacies of the character's thoughts and emotions, creating a unique and thought-provoking viewing experience. We watch Drum’s interrogation by the machine, and with them, learn about their thoughts, feelings, relationship with themselves, and those around them. At no point do any of Drum’s “categorisations” lessen or weaken them. They are strengths, a point of difference.

There’s eloquence and pain in the discussion, someone who’s been told they don’t feel, describes in heart-breaking detail exactly how they do. These themes of grief and loneliness are a vessel, encouraging us to scrutinise our own reality and the societal constraints on the role of artificial intelligence.

Grierson’s film exposes us for believing in stereotypes, exposes society
for marginalising people, and displays in no uncertain terms that everyone deserves to be centre stage. A neurodivergent subject encourages us to examine universal fears. Megan Black’s haunting soundtrack skilfully
captures the film's dark undertones while infusing it with heart and grit.

“I felt the writing was peeling into my heart like a stranger breaking into my house but I allowed it to happen?”
- 2 Shades Magazine

Written and directed by Sam Grierson
Drum - Michelle Jeram
Interviewer - Sherise Blackman
Receptionist - Lucy Wells

Director of Photography - James Peakman
Sound Recordist - Andrew Simpson
Production Manager - Danielle Zhang
Editor - Jimu Zhang
Stylist - Rose Hill

Producer - Kayleigh Tucker
Exec Producer - Claire Brown

Sponsors - Poke Marketing, Orange Orchid

#shortfilm #autism #adhd #nonbinary #ai
Links
www.facebook.com/the.programme.2024
www.instagram.com/the_programme_2024