DEMENTIA DOESN’T CARE CAMPAIGN: Nick Tree on Little Rock, Dementia Storytelling and Human First Filmmaking

In conversation with The Fan Carpet, filmmaker Nick Tree opens up about his powerful short film Little Rock, his journey through the industry, and why storytelling with real emotional impact is at the core of everything he creates.

From Music Roots to Filmmaking

Nick Tree’s journey into film began through music — filming bands, working in documentaries, and developing his craft as an editor. “I learned how to cut before I learned how to direct… you kind of need to be able to cut in your head as you’re directing.”

That foundation still defines his process today, with Tree continuing to edit his own work and maintain creative control across projects.

Little Rock: Storytelling with Purpose

Little Rock was developed in collaboration with a charity supporting young people affected by dementia, but for Tree, the story always came first. “Make sure the narrative is there… make sure it’s serving as a piece of emotional narrative first.”

The film explores the emotional reality of dementia through the perspective of a young carer, drawing on real-life accounts and experiences to ground the story in truth.

A Personal Connection

Since writing the film, the subject matter has become deeply personal for Tree. “I’m so deep in this world now… I go to the dementia ward and visit my grandma.”

This connection adds an additional layer of authenticity and emotional weight to the film’s narrative.

Authentic Performances

Tree approached casting with precision, writing roles with specific actors in mind and prioritising authenticity in performance. “We only got one take… I didn’t want her to go to too dark a place.”

This instinctive, minimal-take approach ensures the emotional beats feel real and unforced.

Music as Emotion

Music plays a vital role in Little Rock, created in close collaboration with composer Tom Keats. “You hear every creaking of the stool… every bum note… every finger on the string.”

The decision to keep everything live and organic reinforces the film’s grounded tone.

Human First Filmmaking

In an era of increasing AI use, Tree remains committed to human-led creativity. “I’m not interested in outsourcing my creativity… I want to keep it human made.”

For him, collaboration remains the beating heart of filmmaking: “The value of contribution… is massively being undervalued.”

What’s Next?

With Little Rock releasing today (April 15), Tree is already developing new projects, aiming to continue working with charities and telling meaningful, impactful stories. “Tell stories that have meaning… move people first, then have the conversation.”

Watch the full interview here:

LITTLE ROCK IS STREAMING NOW ON YPWD.INFO • DEMENTIA DOESN'T CARE