Lawrie Brewster Helps Make-A-Wish Dream Come True at the British Horror Studio
It was just the other day when the entire team at Hex Studios, The B-Team, Fife Creative Studios, and of course, the British Horror Studio joined forces to help fulfil a young horror fan’s dream, right here in our usually dark and ominous lair. But there was nothing gloomy about this beautiful day, which instead brought light to all our hearts.
When the Make-A-Wish Foundation reached out with a unique request, this old leathery film producer, yes, I, Lawrie Brewster, knew I had to say yes. My partner in crime, Sarah Daly, felt no different. We were both touched by a heartfelt wish from a very special young woman who longed to appear in a horror film.
Rebecca Hopkins, from Girvan, Scotland, is a courageous young girl living with a serious illness and a deep passion for horror cinema, especially 1990s classics like Scream and I Know What You Did Last Summer. Her greatest wish was to appear in a real horror film. With a little coordination and a lot of heart, Sarah Daly and I, along with an army of helpers and volunteers, helped make that dream a reality.
Rebecca now stars in Mr Whispers, a retro-inspired supernatural horror in the spirit of The Blair Witch Project. The story follows a group of filmmaking students, led by Kathryn Hale (played by rising British horror star Megan Tremethick), who break into an abandoned cinema to investigate a sinister urban legend. The ghostly figure of Mr Whispers, a porcelain-faced spectre said to be behind the disappearances of local children, forms the terrifying heart of the tale.
Here’s what I, Lawrie Brewster, have to say about the film:
“Mr Whispers is a 1990s throwback that combines two of my great cinematic loves: J-Horror and the gritty faux-documentary or ‘found footage’ style that was emerging in independent film of that era. When the young filmmakers working with us pitched their first feature under The B-Team banner, I was only too thrilled to support the idea, especially the creepy villain I helped design, who takes inspiration from our beloved Owlman character.”
You might think it was all a bit much for Rebecca, but she handled it like a pro. Accompanied by her mum, she travelled to Hex Studios in Fife, home of the British Horror Studio, for a full day of filming with The B-Team.
Producer Jed Shepherd (Host) first alerted me to the challenge the Foundation was facing. They needed a studio close to Rebecca’s home, one that could accommodate her health needs safely and one that was actively in production.
The entire cast and crew of Mr Whispers volunteered their time to support Rebecca’s wish. Megan Tremethick took charge of Rebecca’s make-up and costume, helping her transform into a ghostly character for a haunting scene filmed in our atmospheric stone chambers. Co-stars Dorian Ashbourne, Novarro Ramon, and Sam MacMillan were all on set, offering encouragement and creating memories Rebecca and her family will never forget.
Behind the scenes, Sarah Daly liaised closely with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, coordinating long-distance transport to ensure Rebecca could travel safely. She ensured that Rebecca was comfortable and well cared for throughout the day, arranging meals, rest breaks, and a quiet area for Rebecca and her mum to relax. While the excitement unfolded on set, it was Sarah’s tireless organisation that made the day possible.
Even the fearsome Mr Whispers himself made an appearance. While initially a little unnerved by his cracked porcelain mask, Rebecca soon found him more amusing than frightening. In truth, it was probably my dad-style attempts to converse with young people over pizza that caused more terror.
An entire scene was filmed with Rebecca at the centre. Not only will she appear in the final film, but she will also receive an official acting credit and IMDb listing. These are her first steps into the world of horror cinema.
After filming, we celebrated with a pizza feast, Rebecca’s favourite, generously provided by Domino’s and supported by local businesses and charities, including Fife Creative Studios, who waived their fees and joined in the celebration.
Sarah also made sure Rebecca left with a bundle of gifts, including Owlman plushies, clothing, books, and special treats for her and her sisters.
“It’s never cheap to activate a film set,” I, Lawrie Brewster, admit. “But it was worth every penny. Rebecca’s joy and talent brought something truly special to the production. It was an honour to help make her dream come true.”
Both Sarah and I praised the Make-A-Wish Foundation. By the end of the day, their liaison officer felt like part of the family.
Mr Whispers is now fully filmed and will soon launch a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for post-production. While pledging isn’t open just yet, supporters can already follow the campaign on Kickstarter and be among the first to back it when it goes live.
About The B-Team and The British Horror Studio
The B-Team is an independent horror film studio based in Fife, Scotland. It is part of the wider British Horror Studio project. This initiative is dedicated to reviving a golden age of British horror through bold storytelling, practical effects, and a thriving creative community.
About the Make-A-Wish Foundation
The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a charitable organisation that grants life-changing wishes for children and young people aged 3 to 17 who are living with critical illnesses. With the support of generous donors and volunteers, the Foundation creates extraordinary experiences that bring hope, strength, and joy to families during difficult times.
About Lawrie Brewster
Lawrie Brewster is a veteran horror film producer with over 15 years of experience. He leads Hex Studios, serves as president of Amicus Productions, and runs the British Horror Studio project in collaboration with filmmakers from around the world.
You can follow Lawrie Brewster on his official website: www.lawriebrewster.com
Lawrie has recently published a series of fascinating articles, including his five top tips for indie filmmakers, his thoughts on the current state of film distribution, the creation of the British Horror Studio project, his journey from outsider to filmmaker, and his staunch defence of 1980s-style Sword and Sorcery.
He also recently interviewed Tony Mardon and Andy Edwards on the challenges, stresses, and psychological battles involved in producing films and remaining (somewhat) sane. Do give them a read!