In between the sword fights and archery training, Jo Caruana meets local acting export Andrei Claude to discuss his latest project –a medieval Maltese feature film set for release next year.

It’s not long ago that any Maltese actor would tell you there were absolutely no opportunities for film or theatre work locally. But while prospects are still limited, there’s no denying the recent explosion of projects that is turning a spotlight onto the island’s cultural openings – and Maltese actors are taking note.

In terms of a Maltese film production this is almost certainly the largest there has been. Over 100 locals are involved

One such performer is Andrei Claude, who was born here but later trained in the UK and the US. Although he has worked overseas, he is currently involved in a local film project that he believes will stand proudly among its international counterparts.

That film is called Adormidera and is directed by Ray Mizzi, a filmmaker whose past work secured him the award of Best Directorial Debut at the ITN New York Film Festival. This film, which stars Claude, has already sparked international interest thanks to its recently-released teaser. But how did the actor first get involved?

“Around a year ago, by pure coincidence, I happened to see Ray’s latest short film, The Medic, on TV while I was in Malta on holiday. I couldn’t help but notice the level of detail he went into to make this film look as authentic as it did.”

The film, as well as the name of its director, stayed on Claude’s mind for months. “Then, a year later, I woke to an interesting feed on my Facebook wall – a friend announced that Ray’s film had won an award at the ITN Film Festival. I got in touch with him to congratulate him and we established contact.”

It wasn’t long after that that Mizzi was working on another film project and he asked Claude to be part of it. “I was thrilled at the prospect, both because I am drawn to the medieval era, in which this film is set, and also because I have a lot of respect for Ray and his team. The fact it is a Maltese production is an added bonus. Plus I was very drawn to the script, which takes an absolutely incredible twist, the likes of which I have never read or seen before. I got chills the first time I went through it!”

The film tells the story of five surviving soldiers returning home after battle. Along the way, tired and hungry, they come across a fortress that belongs to a lord they are acquainted with.

They approach the gates and request food and lodging for the night. As they enter the fort they witness something strange and, while four of the soldiers decide to ignore it, one of them simply can’t help but get involved. This angers the lord and triggers off a rather unpleasant series of events.

“In terms of a Maltese film production – and that’s an entire local production and not one with a handful of Maltese crew members – this film is almost certainly the largest there has been,” continues Claude, who explains that around 100 locals are on board, including supporting artists. Maltese actors include Audrey Harrison and Henry Zammit, while Mizzi is working closely with German cinematographer Jeannot Kuenzel.

Several different entities have been involved, too. The Malta Film Commission enabled them to have proper medieval sets constructed, while Kevin Mallia led the design team on this aspect. Charles Polidano has helped to finance it, and also provided the horses and handling crew.

“We have paid a lot of attention to the little details that will make a difference, and everything has been vetted by experts to ensure it is as accurate as possible. All the armour, costumes, props – and even the way the horses are dressed – have been carefully planned and organised.”

In many ways this film is a first for Malta, and it’s now mid-way through filming. “Releasing the teaser trailer was a big step and we were thrilled to get some interest in its distribution from further afield.

“Our original plan was to have an official screening in Malta and then circuit the film at international festivals, but things could change along the way and we’re not yet sure where it could take us.”

With three months of pre-production behind them, as well as a solid few weeks of filming, the team is pleased that everything has taken shape. “So much work went on before the cameras even stared rolling,” Andrei smiles.

“Location selection, casting, costume fittings, sword fighting training, and archery and horse riding practice... Once we did start filming we worked three to four days a week for 12 hours at a time.

“We’re on a break at the moment, but will film the second half in February and hope to wrap the rest up by the end of March.

“It’s always exciting wondering how an audience will take a film, but I believe this one has all the right ingredients to keep people glued to their seats until the very end. As for me? I’ll be staying in tip-top health so I’ll be in great shape to get back on that horse and on a set for ‘round two’!”

Adormidera is set for release in summer 2013. Until then you can check out the trailer at www.youtube.com/adormideramovie.