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Maxine Peake Boards Short Film ‘The Secret Assistants’ Exploring Power Imbalances In The Movie Business
Maxine Peake has joined the BAFTA-qualifying short film *The Secret Assistants* as an executive producer. The film follows an aspiring newcomer caught in a high-stakes interview and examines power imbalances and toxic working environments in the movie business.
Camille Rutherford plays Sophie, who must choose whether to challenge an ethical line or risk her career; Richard Hope plays industry figure Henry Mann. Writer-director Katey Lee Carson and producer Rickie-Lee Roberts drew on their own film-industry experience, and say everyone on the production, from producer to runner, received the same pay rate. The film is screening at festivals including Busan, St Kilda and HollyShorts.
In short
- Maxine Peake joins the short film as executive producer.
- The story centres on a newcomer facing an ethical dilemma.
- The production says all crew members received equal pay.
Explained simply
The film industry includes a wide range of jobs, from performers and directors to production assistants who help keep shoots running. People starting out often depend on interviews and recommendations to find work, while senior figures may have influence over who gets opportunities.
The short film centres on Sophie, an aspiring newcomer, and Henry Mann, an established industry figure. Its story examines how differences in status can affect workplace decisions and the ability to challenge conduct, an issue that can shape people’s experiences and prospects in the movie business.
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