A NEW film-maker is hoping audiences will show some respect to his debut project — a Mafia film set in Swansea.

Darren Protheroe, who has formed Protheroe Productions Limited, is set to start filming in the city next month.

With a budget of around £15,000, Blagger is described as a cross between a gangster film and a black comedy, and although usually associated with the tough streets of New York, or their native Sicily, the 90- minute indie feature could also make the Mafia synonymous with Swansea.

The 34-year-old father of two said: "It's about a guy called Dominic, he's a family man but likes the horses. He decides one day to put the rent money on a horse and he loses.

"This sets off a series of events which have devastating consequences on his life and those in it.

"The betting shop is run by the Swansea Mafia and he has to save his family before it's too late.

"He just stepped on the toes of the local Mafia and now he has to fight for his life back when they take it from him.

"But Dom has a plan, not a very bright one mind, so anything can happen!

''Both funny and serious, it will be a pukka film with lots of good twists."

The former web designer added that he was not worried about stepping on the toes of any Godfather types, adding: "I don't think there really is such a thing as the Swansea Mafia, I've done loads of research on it and I think it's just a big myth, it's just a bit of slapstick fun in the film."

Scenes will be shot in Morriston and Ammanford, as well as Swansea Market, High Street and the enterprise park.

A former Penlan comprehensive pupil, who has an A level in film and studied for a BTEC in drama, Mr Protheroe said: "I have done a few short films, but this is my first feature film. I managed to get £15,000 in funding from two London-based investors. I'm immensely excited and can't wait to get it into film festivals."

With the crew behind the feature mainly from Swansea, the main actors are from across the UK.

Mr Protheroe explained: "We advertised for actors on a major talent website, Star Now, and had a great response from all over the country."

An additional audition will be held at The Club in Morriston on Saturday from noon to find a girl aged 6 to 10, and a female lead, aged 25 to 35.

geraint.thomas@swwmedia.co.uk