Director’s dreams come true with his debut film shot in Bristol

A martial art film shot in Bristol by a Bristolian writer and director will premiere in the city on Saturday.

Gifted Pain, written and directed by Tobias Jon, follows the story of Christopher who seeks refuge from a difficult childhood – until he unlocks “unknown abilities”.

The film was largely shot in Avonmouth, Stokes Croft and the Johnny Ball Lane, and has already won prizes at international film festivals.

“I love film in all its form. From a young child I engrossed myself in films, it’s what I love, it’s an escapism,” Mr Jon said.

Mr Jon said he saw his first Bruce Lee film when he was 12 years old.

“It’s inspiring, his story alone is an inspiring story,” Mr Jon said.

“It pulled me in and made me want to follow his journey and absorb more of the genre he created.

“I think it gives people a purpose, martial arts defines a purpose in people’s lives and gives discipline and motivation.”

Mr Jon said it took him and the crew 35 days to film – over a time period of five years.

“We knew from the start that it would take a long period of time to do because of budget constraints,” Mr Jon said.

“As soon as Covid hit, all the funders pulled out and a lot of things stopped with film-making.

“I thought – you only live once, let’s just do it.”

Most of the people involved in the film gave up their free time for expenses only, Mr Jon said.

“I thought about giving up on it a multitude of times,” he added. “The amazing crew and cast, they supported me.

“This isn’t just a solo project of me who went on their own and made this film.

“I’m proud of the film we made for this city.”

The film will premiere at the Bristol Mega Screen on Saturday.