Aspiring Northampton filmmaker, 24, calls for town's help to make Syrian refugee illegal organ trade movie

A 24-year-old Northampton filmmaker is following his dreams and making his first ever movie - and he's looking for the town's support.

Billy James, from Kingsthorpe, says he is pursuing his passion and is currently in the process of making his film Dark Organs.

The film is about Syrian refugees who trade their organs to finance their journeys over to Europe.

The aspiring movie director said: "It's always been a dream of mine to make a film. I've been trying with this story for the past two years sending the script around. I really think it has got potential.

"This movie is a good start, a good lesson for me and I think it's brought me more meaning and purpose, which I have lost over the past few years - just doing this has been refreshing."

Billy went on to explain his film and where the themes came from.

He said: "After 9/11 there were a lot of films growing up about that and, I think, there should be more films made about Syria.

"My film is set 10 years ago during the Arab Spring. It's about a surgeon who goes to Syria to cash in on the illegal organ trade, and he takes his student with him.

"It then gets too real for them and they try to get out, but the crime boss doesn't let them.

"This topic has an effect on us and, I think, we should look out for third world countries. It's a story that needs to be told."

Billy and the cast have poured £4,000 of their own money into the film so far. They are now appealing to the public to help them continue to finance it.

The team is looking for £13,000 through its KickStarter page to help pay for the actors, props, a film editor and more.

Billy, who is currently a lorry driver, said: "I know this is a lot to ask, but your help would complete the film.

"We'd like people to donate just to make it the best it can possibly be in terms of quality and budget.

"I want the film to be linked to Northampton. We are using locations in the film with scenes from Northampton.

"It's a film which is from Northampton and something to be proud of."

Some scenes have already been shot for the film which were recorded in the town including Waitrose car park, a shop in Whitehills, Spring Line Factory, and various lifts.

Billy hopes the film can boost his reputation, credibility and give him a better knowledge of the industry before heading off to university in London in September to study film.

He is aiming to release the film in Spring 2022 and says he is hoping cinemas in the town will show it.

To watch Billy and the cast explain the film and where the money will be spent, click here.