Kendal and Bowness to be the backdrop for new gothic horror

The film has been created by Elliott Leon and involves cast members from the northwest, largely from Cumbria.

Using the Lakes for its fictional backdrop, 'Freaks of Fancy' was also filmed at a nearby manor house and is hoped to be released later in the year.

Mr Leon said: "I've spent two years on this so it obviously means a lot to me.

"It all started during lockdown when I used that unexpected window of opportunity to draft a new story."The film was shot in various locations throughout Cumbria (Image: Elliott Leon)

Set in 1927 and 1928, the film will follow an Art Deco style, revolving around the tale of a group of four graduates expecting a fun getaway.

"We focus on a character by the name of Doctor Reed, who invites his students to his house on the lake," said Elliott.

"As the tale progresses, we get to watch as the guests start to realise that this isn't a holiday, but instead manipulating them into test subjects."

The film's star is Holly Lovelady, an up-and-coming performer from Liverpool who is set to work with 'Calendar Girls' producer Nick Barton.

Rachel Brownstein, a Northern Star award winner from Leeds, completes the cast alongside an ensemble of local actors.

Holly Lovelady is set to star in the film (Image: Elliott Leon)"My hope is to make films in support of the area I live in," Elliott explained, with his last piece, 'Humps', being centred around the mysteries of Windermere and 'Bownessie'.

"There are so many talented people who live around here, and they deserve to be given a platform to show the skills they have to offer," he said..

A recent screening took place at the Staveley Roundhouse for the cast and their families, with Elliott still looking for benefactors to air the movie to ensure a November release.

"I want to thank Fliss Pocock of the Roundhouse supporting us, but we always need more from other people."

He finished by highlighting the importance of investors when it comes to promotion and asked for any suitors to contact him at elliottjamesleon@hotmail.com.