Independent filmmaker Ryan J. Smith has released his third feature Kid, now available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video.
At just 27, the writer-director and graduate of MetFilm School has built a reputation for creating festival-ready films on modest budgets. His latest film, made for only £4,500, is a story about ambition and family and the pressures that come with them.
The story follows a rising music producer who secures a major record deal while trying to hold his family together. The 80-minute feature had its world premiere at the Manchester Film Festival, a BAFTA and BIFA qualifying event, where it screened to a full house.
Smith, from Blackpool, has carved out a place in British independent cinema with his Skint Film Company. His first two features, Lottery and Talking to Ghosts, were produced for under £7,000 and achieved international distribution through streaming platforms. Kid continues this track record and marks his first co-production, supported by Silent D Pictures.
The film is about pressure,” says Smith. “Pressure to succeed, to deliver, and to care for the people closest to you. We worked with a lean set-up so the story could stay in focus.”
The film includes a storyline centred on endometriosis, highlighting its impact on choices about fertility and family life. Smith drew on conversations with women he knows who have lived with the condition.
MetFilm School played an important role in Smith’s early career, from his award-winning documentary Red Light Solo through to his current feature work.
“The training gave me the grounding to move quickly,” he says. “I still use those lessons every day.”
Audiences can watch Kid now on Amazon, Google Play and YouTube Movies.
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