A Guernsey born director is engaging with UK and local talent to produce a short film based on a book of magic and spells called 'Le Petit Albert' that scared many islanders.

Joshua Fletcher says he wants to share one of Guernsey's more peculiar 17th century folk tales with the world.

Filming for ‘Albert’ is due to begin in September this year.

It's based on the mystery surrounding 'Le Petit Albert' book.

"Many people on the island owned these magical grimoires, and it harboured much fear from others.

Copies can still be found in the Priaulx Library, and it is said that even the librarians are afraid to handle them."

The project has received a £3,500 grant from Guernsey Arts, that will go towards the set and costumes.

Joshua says he is proud to film entirely in Guernsey.

"It's so important to gain the right production design and set design.

The unique feel of the island, with its granite buildings and amazing brutal sheer cliffs on the south coast, all of that is so integral to the story that it couldn't be shot anywhere else but Guernsey." 

Andrew Butler, from ITV’s ‘Trigger Point’, will be the Director of Photography and Elizabeth Butterick from Apple TV’s ‘Trying' will be lead costume designer.

Joshua says he's incorporating some local talent too:

"Alex Bates, who was a director of "Occupied" and "Born of Water" is getting involved as a production designer.

In front of the camera, we have local actor Cameron Ashplant.

I want to put a spotlight on the great work that locals are doing - positioning that alongside the UK talent." 

The film will premiere locally in spring 2025.