“As a filmmaker I craft stories to shine a light on the diverse human experience—to entertain, uncover hidden truths, and spark aspiration.

“Roots and Crowns" serves as a celebration of a British/Jamaican family's vibrant life and laughter, alongside the nuanced journey of cultural identity that many can relate to. Meanwhile, "A Toast to Tomorrow" tells an intimately dramatic story set against London's ever-changing backdrop, focusing on the enduring human spirit and our shared pursuit of ambitions. Lastly, with "From Script to Screen," I pay tribute to the unwavering determination of independent filmmakers, delving into the depths of their creative zeal to illuminate the indomitable passion that propels them to pursue the art of storytelling amid the myriad of obstacles they face, underscoring cinema's profound ability to transform both creator and viewer alike.”

Damien Swaby

Our Projects

Roots and Crowns

  • In Development

  • Sitcom

Get ready for a humorous escapade with "Roots and Crowns," a sitcom in its developmental. In the hearty sitcom “Roots and Crowns,” charismatic British/Jamaican dentist (Mike Whipper) from Catford’s humble havens to Highgate’s posh circles—must juggle cultural fidelity and social climbing, while his father a retired traditional hard working Jamaican (Winston Whipper) and art dealer brother (Julian Whipper) dance a familial tug-of-war. Together, they navigate the hilarity of life’s contrasts, underscored by Mike’s podcast “Braces & Basslines: Jammin’ at the Jaw Joint,” which harmonises the twang of dental tools with the beats of heritage.

  • Pilot in pre-production stage for the sitcom "Roots and Crowns"

  • Focus on the life of the Whipper family, a delightful British/Jamaican household

  • 20-minute episodes capturing the family's humorous experiences

  • Utilises a multi-camera setup to ensure all comedic moments are recorded

  • Comedy blending sharp humor with deeper societal commentary

  • Addresses the balance of upholding traditions with modern living

  • Ensures an accessible viewing experience, available for streaming and TV broadcast

  • Targets both young and adult audiences with laughs and relatable content

  • Aims to secure its place as a favorite among comedy enthusiasts

A Toast to Tomorrow

  • In Development

  • Feature Film

Nestled in the vibrant heart of London, Joe's Bar is a sanctuary steeped in nostalgia, on the cusp of inevitable change. Joe Burke, the world-weary manager, clings to his faded dreams, while Emma Yasmine, the spirited bartender, chases culinary ambitions just out of reach. Their paths converge during a night of turmoil as the bar faces a transformative makeover into a West Indian restaurant, endangering their futures. In this maelstrom, Joe and Emma find an unexpected kinship in shared struggles. "A Toast to Tomorrow" is a poignant tale of unfulfilled dreams and resilience, highlighting that it's not the echo of past desires but the bravery to chase them that truly endures.

  • "A Toast to Tomorrow" presents a nuanced drama for moviegoers who appreciate inward-looking narratives intertwined with hopeful elements despite life's complexities.

  • The film targets a broad audience spectrum, from adults who enjoy deep character exploration to young adults navigating significant life junctures.

  • Main characters include Joe Burke, a bar manager tethered to the past and uncertain future, and Emma Yasmine, a lively bartender on the cusp of realising her culinary ambitions.

  • Their linked stories reflect the everlasting human struggle with persistence and transformation.

  • As Joe and Emma confront significant changes at Joe's Bar, they develop an unarticulated bond.

  • This bond highlights the value of human connections in surmounting collective hurdles.

  • The story serves as an elegant tribute to the enduring human spirit that thrives amid common trials and postponed dreams.

“From Script to Screen”

  • In Production

  • Feature Film

Explore the world of independent film with "From Script to Screen: Why do they do it?", a documentary that offers an intimate glance into the lives of filmmakers and their quest for storytelling. This 90-minute feature-format documentary blends interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and personal stories, offering a nuanced look into the dedication behind filmmakers' quests to tell their stories. Positioned firmly in the investigative genre, it seeks to unravel not just the how but the why of the independent film movement.

  • Tone & Style: Poignant and reflective; utilises cinema verité

  • Ideal Platforms: Streaming services, film festivals, and other venues for artistic process enthusiasts

  • Target Audience:

  • Aspiring filmmakers

  • Film students

  • Cinema enthusiasts

  • Themes:

  • The resolve and craftsmanship in filmmaking

  • Personal and financial sacrifices of creators

  • Overcoming societal skepticism

  • Focus: Offers a detailed look at the filmmaking process from concept to completion

Book a Class

At Swaby Films, our bespoke consulting services guide you confidently through the indie filmmaking terrain, offering tailored expertise in screenplay development, production insights, and distribution strategies to elevate your vision into cinematic reality.