Oliver Kember Captures the Haunting Magic of Deserted London

Agent Elson's freelance director Oliver Kember has launched an online film of London during lockdown. 

Oliver made the film whilst passing through the town to collect supplies for his isolating parents early last week. Expecting to see the odd empty street or two, Oliver had his camera to hand. What he didn’t expect was to be profoundly struck by the haunting beauty of the heart of London with almost no one in sight. 

Having lived in London his whole life, Oliver had never seen anything like it, magical but also deeply saddening. London is made of its people.  

As a freelance director, Oliver made the film as a way to stay active. ‘Shooting, cutting and grading the project myself was a blast, and seeing the footage come together reminded me how lucky I am to live in the amazing city of ours’ said Oliver. 

The sound design was remotely done by Fred Pearson. Fred could only hand a couple of days over for the project, which became a two man job and a labour of love. 

Oliver said: “I really liked the idea of seeing this abandoned city of ours, eerie and haunting as the visuals are, but filling the sound design with the spirit and sounds of London. A reminder that London’s people are the true heart of the city; that we were once there, and that we’ll be back. The ending of the film serves to reflect on the loss I felt walking those quiet streets. 

“I hope that watching this film gives viewers a sense of hope, and of pride for London and its people. We’ll Be Back.” 

Oliver is currently repped by Agent Elson for commercial work.