DIVA spoke to the filmmaker about the power of authentic storytelling and her trilogy
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGES BY APRIL KELLEY
Over the past three years, Mini Productions has crafted a powerful trilogy of short films — Treacle, Just In Case, and Do This For Me — each helmed by female directors and fearlessly exploring themes of sexuality, mental health and identity. At the heart of the trilogy is April Kelley, who draws from her own lived experience as a bisexual woman diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Through these stories, Mini aims to spark connection, awareness and healing. Following the final film’s premiere at BFI Flare, we spoke with April about the journey behind the trilogy, its impact and what comes next.
What inspired you to create this trilogy of films exploring themes of sexuality and mental health?
Growing up, I never saw people like me on screen. I always say that my 20s would’ve been a lot easier if I had seen more bisexual characters in shows and films. I spent too many sleepless nights wondering if I was gay or straight. And don’t even get me started on the representation of mental health and illness in the media. I’m pretty sure that if it had been portrayed more honestly, I might’ve received my diagnosis sooner.
Treacle highlights bisexuality in a way that is rarely seen in film – what message did you want to convey with that story?
I wanted to portray a character who is wholeheartedly bisexual and proud of it – no hint of “a phase” or questioning whether she might be “fully” gay.
There’s a cliché and a myth that bisexuality equals promiscuity. I wanted to subtly challenge that. From my own experience, I’m not chasing straight girls, but I do find (as do my bisexual friends) that they can become enamoured. I couldn’t tell you why; I’m no Margot Robbie, and I’m definitely not that funny. It’s hard to explain because it’s more of a “feeling”, but if I had to guess, I think being with a bisexual might feel less daunting than being with a lesbian or gay woman… which brings me to the line of dialogue I most want people to remember:
“I bet if I was a lesbian this wouldn’t have even happened, and if I was a dude, it’d be a non-fucking-issue.”
Why was it important for you to collaborate with organizations like Bipolar UK and the Bisexual Resource Centre?
It’s important because it ensures that the portrayal of these subjects is accurate, respectful, and meaningful. These stories come from my lived experience, which I know isn’t the same for everyone. That’s why I wanted to collaborate with both charities to make sure the portrayal is authentic and relatable to others, as they have the firsthand knowledge and expertise.
It goes without saying that, by collaborating with them, we’re raising awareness. I’m a massive advocate and will happily fly the biggest of flags.
I’m also an ambassador for Bipolar UK, and sharing these projects with their community has been incredibly special. I hope it becomes a tool that can be used for years to come.
And once more, with feeling… education!
How has the audience response to these films impacted you and the team at Mini Productions?
If I’m honest, it’s been quite overwhelming – but in the best possible way. People from all over the world have reached out, sharing how they resonated with these stories and offering their own. When we set out to make these films, I said that if we could bring comfort to just one person – if we could make one person feel seen and heard – then we’d done our job. In a surprising turn of events, it’s the audiences of these films who have made me feel seen and heard.
Can you tell us more about the decision to develop the trilogy into a television series?
As a producer, I’ve been shouting into the void, “Where the hell are the shows for millennials?!” Now more than ever, we want to see ourselves on screen. We want to relate, to feel seen, heard, and comforted. We want to believe that everything is still possible, that turning 30 and being single isn’t a failure. Sex and the City did it for the 40s, The Bold Type did it for the early twenties, but what about the lost generation hitting or who have already hit their 30s?!
What do you hope viewers take away from watching these films?
Perspective.
Bisexuality and bipolar are often misunderstood, and more often than not, they’re portrayed through clichés or surface-level explorations.
I hope that viewers walk away knowing more than they did before. For those who identify as bisexual or live with bipolar disorder, I’d love for them to be able to share it with their loved ones to help them understand the experiences of their friend, child, sibling, parent, partner, etc.
What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers who want to tell deeply personal and socially impactful stories?
First and foremost, protect your heart and mind. Exploring such topics can be triggering. Secondly, remember that it’s your truth, so don’t let anyone challenge that. However, absolutely listen to your team, as they’ll be the ones bringing your story to life, and they are experts in their own craft. Finally, from a creative perspective, with all three of these shorts, I started with one line of dialogue that I wanted the audience to remember as their takeaway from the film.
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