Dissolution (2007 - 2008)

Production Overview

Following on from Elite Mercenary, YSP had little time left as a whole functioning unit due to the imminent end of the members 6th form time. After finishing their final film, Saturday Afternoon Fever, the makers went their separate ways to University with Chris Bevan heading to Birmingham, Hadleigh Roberts to Bath and Alexander Burley to Lancaster. The idea of a continuation of the CJ Simmons saga had been discussed and conclusions were drawn that a new feature film should not be made for a few years at least. Finally, upon returning to Italy for a holiday, Chris Bevan began to draft the first part in a brand new mini series entitled 'Dissolution Of A Mercenary'. Bringing back Charles Jenkins and Richard Burbank, a scheme was devised whereby each part would be created at separate places and then joined together upon completion. Once again filming in Italy, CJ Simmons would meet Richard Burbank under differing circumstances than from the deleted scenes from Elite Mercenary. Following the completion of several scenes in Bath, key new actors Tom Oakley and Harry Nixon were hired to portray Mr Reynolds and Thomas Callaghan respectively. On December 6th, the first part was released again to a great reception which praised the new style and format of the CJ Simmons series, now retitled as just 'Dissolution'. At the end of January, Part II saw its release and to capitalise on the interest in this, Part III was put out 2 weeks ahead of schedule in early February. It was at this time that Chris Bevan decided to withdraw from his course at Birmingham, citing a greater interest in entering the film industry. This move sparked a 3 month delay for the series due to Chris' inability to film with key actors and during this delay, a new film entitled 'Gathered' was shot and edited by several key members of the Dissolution cast. At long last in early May, Dissolution Part IV was given a release date of May 22nd to coincide with the second anniversary of CJ Simmons' first public showing. So far, the series has achieved critical acclaim from those who have seen it, with viewers citing the intriguing plot, cinematography and reinvigorated characters as the main reasons for interest. Following intense shoots in Lancaster, Bromsgrove and Cardiff, the series returned to familiar locations featuring the reunion of key characters. For Parts 8 & 9, a two back-to-back filming days was organised at an aircraft hangar just outside of Shrewsbury and at various other locations where the main characters and numerous extras would congregate for the series' conclusion. After a lengthy and challenging shoot on August 30th, primary filming for the series was wrapped up with the exception of a few minor scenes, with the release date for Part 9 tentatively set for November. A trailer was released for the final episode online in early October. The penultimate filming session for the series took place in Bath from 7th to 8th of November, with the release date being pushed back to December, a year on from the first showing of Part 1.

Events between Elite Mercenary and Dissolution

A year has passed between the last time CJ Simmons was seen in action and much has happened.

After working on a small time contract in Cuba, Simmons attempted to cut down on private hire and contract work, ultimately deciding against this following a referral from friend Charles Jenkins. The death of Janet in October 2006 caused a change in Simmons, who whilst devastated did not dwell on the loss yet became more introverted. In November 2007, Simmons discovered that former enemy Richard Burbank was alive and well and flew out to Italy to confront him.

Burbank, shot during the events of Elite Mercenary but miraculously surviving, swore revenge against CJ Simmons for the loss of his arms business. After escaping the scene of the shooting, Burbank allowed his personal medics to give him assistance but was forced to flee the country after his business was disbanded. A story was leaked suggesting his remains had been flown back to Italy and a fake gravestone was erected to maintain the illusion in the nearby cemetery. It was during the time between November 2006 and May 2007 when Burbank met Mr Reynolds, who convinced him to join his cause against Simmons. By hiring Peter Moseley as his underling, Burbank was able to keep a careful watch over the activities of Simmons and prepare his revenge.

Charles Jenkins faced on on going inquiry into his hiring of a mercenary and disregard for protocol which critics and notable figures suggested led to the deaths of many people, notably Buchanan and Harris. By September 2007, the official inquiry had begun, surrounded by intense media speculation as more details of Jenkins' activities were made public.

Janet Core stayed on as head of BIS temporarily but returned to the USA citing stress and unhappiness as her reasons. Once home, she became depressed and attempted suicide but was saved and was later diagnosed with post-traumatic stress from her time in captivity and the deaths of many around her. She made a startling recovery, even beginning a new job and meeting a new partner but this new life was tragically cut short when she was killed by an explosion in her car. The death was reported as suspicious but considering her state of mind and an long investigation, it was put down to either suicide or accidental death. Simmons mourned privately upon hearing the news from Jenkins, who flew out to the funeral in the following weeks. The impact of her death was not as profound upon Simmons initially, but by being a representation of the normal life Simmons could have had, she continues to haunt Simmons.

Plot Details

Due to the ongoing nature of the series, the plot for Dissolution will not yet be posted.

Part I : Immoral Stipulations (06/12/07)

Part II : Questionable Loyalty (30/01/08)

Part III : Betrayal (12/02/08)

Part IV : All Change (22/05/08)

Part V: Reflections Of The Past (27/06/08)

Part VI: Deepest Sympathies (26/07/08)

Part VII: Issues Of Trust (22/09/08)

Part VIII: Invisible Nemesis (09/10/08)

Part IX: God Amongst Men (??/??/??)