The collection will showcase the work of three emerging female writers and directors from diverse backgrounds, as part of the 4Stories initiative.

The three stories are distinct but will be thematically linked and will aim to portray real life issues in contemporary Britain.

The films are as follows:

Through the Gates

Written by Georgia Christou and directed by Stella Corradi Through the Gates tells the story of Aimee (Ria Zmitrowicz) a woman who has spent most of her young, tumultuous life in and out of prison. Tessa (Wunmi Mosaku) is a disillusioned parole officer charged with the care of Aimee’s welfare after her release, living her own life of organised chaos, all under the watchful eye of her boss, Mark (Craig Parkinson).

A Mother’s Love 

Written by Janice Okoh and directed by Anwar Boulifa A Mother’s Love reveals the lives of single mum Josephine (Nadine Marshall) and her 11 year old son Ishmael (Keajohn Jennings Dillon) which are devastated when he witnesses a gangland crime on their estate and has to testify against the killer. Under threat, they find sanctuary in the middle class home of Josephine’s sister Claudia (Carryl Thomas) and her judgemental husband Patrick (Cyril Nri).

That Girl

Written by Rose Lewenstein and directed by Dionne Edwards, That Girl centres around the friendship between Ashley (Chanel Cresswell) and Becca (Alexandra Roach). Rebellious Ashley refuses to grow up, encouraged by rational flatmate Becca. But, when she is forced to confront her past, Ashley’s life begins to unravel.

Supported by Directors UK, 4Stories is a major emerging talent initiative from Channel 4 which encourages talent currently under-represented in television drama – women, disabled people, BAME, as well as those from disadvantaged backgrounds, with the objective of showcasing talent, and kick-starting promising careers. The series is produced by Blacklight, a Banijay Group company.

Applications for writers and directors to apply for 4Stories series two will also go live this August.