SUFFRAGETTE PRODUCTION PROCESS

PRE-PRODUCTION

Planning and research-

There was a lot of research done. There had been no other filmmaker had decided to take on a film based on the suffragettes and she had to ensure the it would be perfect and true to the history. There was 6 years of research before starting production. This shows to commitment and dedication f Abi Morgan and director Sarah Gavron.

Screen writing-

The screenwriter, ‘Abi Morgan’ was initially hesitant to write about the women’s rights campaign. This was mainly because it was exhausting to ensure the historical accuracy of all the figures. She said that it was ‘a blessing and a curse’. Abi Morgan says that there were at least 30 re-drafts and many were or specific scenes. Also she initially based the story on the perspective of Alice but there decided to base it on the character of Maud so it could how the extent of the struggles that women actually went through. 

Casting-

Carey Mulligan - was cast to play  Maud Watts on 24 Feb 2013

Helena Bonham Carter - joined on 20 Dec 2013

Meryl Streep - was cast as British Suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst on 19 Feb 2014

Ben Whishaw- joined on 20 Feb 2014 

Faye Ward - independent TV/film producer, Suffragette was her project on 27 Aug 2014

There were also many external actors to really communicate the vastness of the campaign and how many people were truly effected. also, to create the verisimilitude.

Costumes and props-

Some of the costumes were original pieces to create realism. Also, some had to loo real to create the authentic look and make it seem like they actually belonged to the 20th century. Costumes included trench coats and long dresses nd these need to be altered specifically for the actors. 

Locations and Settings-

Suffragette was shot in the Houses of Parliament. The team had to get permission from the British Parliament members. Suffragette was the first film production to be able to be shot in the Houses Of Parliament.