It’s lights, camera, action in Paisley for crime drama

Film team has first episode in the can

Paisley was transformed into Victorian London as filming was completed for the first episode of a new crime drama.

Now the senior team of A True Mismatch are in two months of post production work, chasing the dream of a future blockbuster.

Daniel Reynolds, the lead actor and co-writer, ruled the roost as the tough gang leader over four days of shooting in the town.

And he said: “Everything went well and now the really hard work of post production has begun.”

More than £ 5,100 has been raised through crowdfunding, enough to get a second episode underway.

Key locations at Oakshaw and Sma’ Shot Cottages were sealed off from the public to allow filming.

Paisley was chosen for its historic architecture and proved to be a great double for the streets of 1900s London.

Daniel, from Johnstone, said: “We have made a donation to the Sma’ Shot Cottages for their hospitality.

“They really helped us out and massive thanks are due to the team for having us over the past few weeks.

“I would specially like to mention Lucy McConnell and Catherine Mitchell for being such wonderful hosts.”

Post-production is where the magic happens and a composer has been hired for the soundtrack.

The episode was a debut for a pair of Johnstone lads Kayden Weir,12, and eight-year-old Kayden Mclay.

They play pick pockets in the gang of Harry Shaw, played by Daniel.

It’s a classic tale of haves and havenots and has been described as a mix of Oliver Twist, a portion of Peaky Blinders and a bit of Bridgerton.

Actor Stephen Corrall played Mr Godfrey and said: “I love a period drama with all the costumes and the set.”

Robert Hackney, who plays Willie, added: “This is important to me because its a chance to put Paisley and Scotland on the map.

“It will also provide an opportunity for local cast and crews to show their skill.”

Matthew Haws, who plays Warren, said now was such an important time to back the arts.

He added: “Thanks to everyone who has donated to back projects like this.”

Episode one is designed as a showcase and will be streamed on Amazon Prime Video in a bid to try and land a film deal and let people see it.

Daniel said: “We cannot wait for people to see what we have.

“The first episode is a pilot and grabs you quite early on, as it can been seen on its own.

“But you do know there is going to be an ongoing story.

“There is a real cliffhanger at the end.” A ten-strong cast was involved with eight crew and a team of Victorian extras.

An ent i re ser ies of eight episodes is likely to cost around £20,000.