Exploring Nostalgia in Kathryn Ferguson’s Short Film "Nostalgie"
Have you ever felt nostalgic for a time that seems lost? Or perhaps you wonder if things really were better back then? These thought-provoking questions are at the heart of "Nostalgie," a captivating short film directed by Belfast filmmaker Kathryn Ferguson, renowned for her acclaimed documentary "Nothing Compares" on Sinéad O’Connor.
This 19-minute film features a gripping storyline: a once-famous 1980s pop star receives an unexpected invitation to perform, pulling him from retirement and thrusting him into a moral quandary. The film stars Aidan Gillen, known for his roles in "Game of Thrones," "Peaky Blinders," and "The Wire," alongside talented actors Jessica Reynolds and Michael Smiley.
"Nostalgie" is based on a short story by Wendy Erskine and was adapted for the screen by Stacey Gregg. Produced by Stille Productions and Tara Films, in partnership with Globe Originals and Hopefield, the film is co-financed by Film4, with an impressive executive producer team including Lucy Pullin and Neil Chordia. The film also features a stunning score by Dan Smith of Bastille, enhancing its emotional depth.
Premiering at the 69th BFI London Film Festival, "Nostalgie" is one of four shorts supported by Film4 under the theme "Pulling the Rug Out." Ferguson shares insights into her transition from documentaries to fiction, explaining how her Irish roots and personal experiences inspired her storytelling approach.
Having recently completed her documentary on Sinéad O’Connor, Ferguson was approached about directing a drama. She was introduced to Erskine’s work and found "Nostalgie" particularly resonant. "It felt deeply cinematic and relevant," she says, noting how the story explores the complexities of music ownership and artistic expression.
When asked if she considered expanding "Nostalgie" into a feature film, Ferguson emphasized that the short format suited the story perfectly. Collaborating with writer Stacey Gregg and working closely on the music added layers to the film’s development. The process of adapting the narrative from page to screen was both challenging and rewarding.
Ferguson also touched upon the real-life inspiration behind the film. The original story reflects the reality of paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland misappropriating popular songs for their own purposes, illustrating the often complicated relationship between art and politics.
Casting Aidan Gillen as the lead was a pivotal decision. Ferguson sought an actor who could convincingly perform musically, and Gillen’s talent and understanding of the story’s intricacies made him an ideal choice. The film also features a stellar cast, bringing together the best of Northern Irish talent.
Looking ahead, Ferguson is excited about her future projects. She’s currently working on a new feature documentary, set to release in early 2026, while also developing a script for a drama feature. Her experience on "Nostalgie" has ignited her passion for fiction, and she is eager to explore more storytelling avenues.
For more insights and coverage of LFF 2025 shorts, check out our articles on "Flock" by Mac Nixon and "Magid/Zafar" by LuÃs Hindman, exploring diverse narratives and identities on screen.
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