Tattoos: A Scarred History

Tattoos: A Scarred History is a feature film documentary produced by Pillay-Evans Productions. Directed by first timer SJ Evans, the film takes a sociological look at tattoos and tries to answer the question of why tattoos have become such a large part of today’s society. From interviews with sociologists, psychologists, historians and counsellors, the film explores the history of tattoos, from serial killers to royals, sailors to asylum seekers, and perhaps the most powerful tattoo of all time, the one given to Auschwitz prisoners. Tattoos: A Scarred History also takes a wide look at the world of tattoos from ancient civilisations that believed it was a right of passage, to religious leaders who feel it is breaking one of the Ten Commandments. The film delves into the minds of people to discover their emotional and personal reasons for getting a tattoo, including Meg Gaffney’s powerful story as she seeks a tattoo artist to replicate her nipples after battling cancer.

Cast

The film includes appearances from a host of celebrities, including Julie Benz, Warwick Davis, David Carradine, Jason Mewes, Mackenzie Crook, Greg Grunberg, Danny Dyer, Billy Boyd, Pete Postlethwaite, David Warner, Shawnee Smith, Ana Matronic, Kaiser Cheifs, Gordon Ramsay, Joe Calzaghe, Derek Acorah, Brad Dourif, John Landis, Zandra Rhodes and Udo Kier.

Charity

From the beginning, producers Sousila Pillay and SJ Evans wanted to give something back, despite this being their first feature film. After being so moved watching stories of children with HIV/AIDS, they descided that a portion of the films profits should go to children's charity Angelwish, which provides wishes to thousands of terminally ill children every year.

Behind the Scenes

Filming of the documentary has taken nearly two years, and has been funded entirley by Pillay-Evans Productions. During the two years, both Sousila Pillay and SJ Evans have had to work several jobs, including crossing guard, warehouse customer assistant, TV extras, and working in an autistic school.

A helping hand

To make the film possible, Pillay-Evans Productions received a 'helping hand' from several companies including Darryn Lyons' Big Pictures, and cancer support internet web site Growing Bolder who both provide footage for the film.

Pillay-Evans Productions have received support from numerous celebrities including George Michael and Pink, and were applauded for their efforts by Brad Pitt and George Clooney via their Not On Our Watch organisation.

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