A writer and director from Milton Keynes will have his debut feature film, Road Kill, shown as part of the Romford Horror Festival.
Kieran Johnston, 38, discovered a passion for the horror genre as a child.
"My dad introduced me to films like The People Under the Stairs, Twilight Zone: The Movie, and Child’s Play, and that’s where my love for the genre began," he told MKFM, "My dad passed away in 2011 from asbestos-related cancer, but he knew I wanted to be a filmmaker. Before he fell into a morphine-induced coma, he told me: “Just keep going. Don’t give up, no matter what everyone thinks. I’m proud of you.” Most of my films are dedicated to him, he’s the reason I fell in love with horror and storytelling."
Road Kill is a tense psychological thriller following two strangers trapped in a car on a long night journey, exploring themes of grief, guilt, and survival.
"The original idea for Road Kill came from Martin W. Payne, a brilliant actor and a close friend who I’ve known for many years. Martin had the concept back in 2023 and approached me about directing it. We both felt that Peter Tilley, an incredibly talented upcoming actor and a great friend would be perfect for the second role, and the film really lives and breathes through their performances."
Filming took place last July, with the car journey beginning here in the new city, on a trip to Southend-on-Sea. Filming was completed in just 14 hours!
"It was a tough but rewarding shoot, using multiple GoPro cameras mounted inside the vehicle. I was positioned in the back seat, monitoring the footage live from my phone throughout the journey. Martin and Peter completely carried the film, and their performances are what truly make it work."
The film previously received a positive response when it aired at the Horror-on Sea Festival, and having it selected to show at the Romford Horror Festival - on February 21 - is set to continue the success.
"Making a feature film independently has been a huge personal milestone for me, and seeing it reach a festival audience feels incredibly meaningful," Kieran added.
