AN EMMY nominated and Box based director wants to change people's perceptions about homelessness with a new live action film set in the heart of Manchester.

Inspired by the grit and determination shown by people living on the streets, Richard Bazley of Predawn Films wanted to give something back and so with the help of colleague Gary Young, the concept of gritty live action drama Predawn was created.

Using a musician who used to live on the streets of Manchester as their main actor, Predawn will attempt to portray a simple love story set in the backdrop of dangerous streets with a few twists and turns thrown in for good measure in order to raise more awareness and money for homeless charities.

"We have had a really positive reaction so far," Mr Bazley, who has worked on films such as Pocahontas and Hercules, said. "There are a lot of crowdfunding campaigns out there so it is getting people to take notice of it but we have just gone over the £6,000 mark today.

"All profits from the film will go to homeless charities and causes. We have got three weeks left before the end of the campaign but we have to to get £20,000 to make the film.

"Part of making a film is about changing hearts and minds. It is so important to change people's perception and explain why people can be out on the streets. In the UK there are about 6,000 rough sleepers and this could be changed no matter what government is in power - it is about compassion, not political leanings."

In the hopes of representing a true account of what it is like for someone on the streets, the directors decided to hire musician Sam Kirkpatrick after listening to his story on ITV news. Using a basic script and the power of improvisation, the directors hope to accomplish raw emotion and lasting drama.

Mr Bazley said: "When we started thinking about the film, I was looking at music and thinking it would be good if we could get someone who used to be homeless as there's a lot of talent out there. Then we came across Sam and his work and it was fantastic.

"You can have really good actors that support the cause but how do they act stuff they have never really experienced? Sam is not a trained actor and was homeless for six years and brought up in care homes but he is the character."

For more information about Predawn or to pledge your support visit www.igg.me/at/predawnfilms.