Leveling Up the Second Feature: George Jaques on Directing, writing and producing Sunny Dancer, Bella Ramsey & Neil Patrick Harris
How do you transition from a £500k indie debut to a massive ensemble feature starring some of the biggest names in television and film? This week on The Filmmakers Podcast, Giles Alderson sits down with returning guest, writer-director George Jaques (Black Dog), to discuss his stunning second feature, Sunny Dancer.
Set against the backdrop of a summer camp for young cancer survivors, Sunny Dancer is a funny, warm, and deeply moving coming-of-age story that actively rejects hospital drama clichés. George breaks down his entire process, from pitching the script to Bella Ramsey and casting Neil Patrick Harris over Zoom, to creating an authentic, bond-filled atmosphere for his young cast on set in Scotland.
🎬 IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:
Subverting the 'Sick Teen' Genre: How George wrote a script where illness takes a back seat to teenage angst, party culture, awkward romance, and joy.
The Power of 'Feral Takes': George's unique directing technique for unlocking spontaneous, hilarious, and uninhibited performances from his actors.
Directing an All-Star Ensemble: What it was like working with Bella Ramsey, Ruby Stokes, Jessica Gunning, James Norton, and Neil Patrick Harris—and how he tailored his notes for each actor.
Creating On-Set Rapport: Why George insists on week-long rehearsals, shared transport, and summer camp bonding activities to make his cast look like lifelong friends on screen.
The Second Feature Jump: The harsh financial realities of closing indie film equity, managing producer stress, and looking after your mental health in the edit suite.
Sunny Dancer (2026) — Director, Writer, Producer
Cast: Bella Ramsey (The Last of Us), Ruby Stokes (Bridgerton), Conrad Khan (Peaky Blinders), Earl Cave (The End of the F*ing World), Jasmine Elcock, Jessica Gunning (Baby Reindeer), James Norton (Happy Valley), Neil Patrick Harris (Uncoupled), and James Blunt.
Black Dog (2023) — Director, Writer, Producer
Cast: Jamie Flatters (Avatar: The Way of Water), Keenan Munn-Tyson, Ruby Stokes.
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