A COMMUNITY film telling the story of teenagers and young people in St Ann's was premiered in the city this weekend.
The Chase features around 40 young people from Nottingham and aims to raise awareness of the struggles they face.
The film was shot across the city, with scenes in Sneinton Mapperley and St Ann's.
It was shown for the first time at Cineworld, in the Cornerhouse in Nottingham, on Saturday.
Susie Gray is the project manager for the Nottingham Children, Young People and Families Project, the charity which organised the film.
She said: "The purpose of the film is to show experiences that occur with young people. It is not meant to glorify or make excuses – we wanted to give young people a platform."
The story follows four main characters growing up in St Ann's and tackles issues of gangs, drugs, domestic violence and friendship.
Ms Gray added: "We wanted to give kids the experience of working on a professional film set and build their skills.
"They're really creative."
The charity is now in discussions about where to show the film next.
Curtis Scott, of Cauncon Avenue in St Ann's, plays Luther, one of the main characters.
He said: We want to get across what it is like living in inner-city Nottingham.
"Some people don't understand how kids get dragged into things."
The 19-year-old added: "It's been amazing. I've never been on a proper set and to be a part of that was great."
Ethan Davey, 7, of Gedling village, also appeared in the film.
He said: "It feels good to be involved. I've just been acting a lot and I've enjoyed it. I would like to be famous and be an actor."
Most of the young people involved had no previous acting experience and are residents who auditioned for parts.
Faolan Jones works for Rewired TV, a Nottingham-based not-for-profit organisation formed to make the film.
Mr Jones, who co-directed the film, said: "Hopefully the movie will open up a dialogue.
"It would be nice if policy-makers could see it.
"Everyone involved can be proud – the acting talent is brilliant."
The project was funded through a series of grants, including the National lottery's Awards For All and money from One Nottingham and Lloyds Bank.
Have you seen The Chase? Let us know your views at newsdesk@nottinghampostgroup.co.uk
