Celebrating 40 Years of the Espresso Martini: A New Micro-Documentary by Jacqueline Fernandez
Filmmaker Jacqueline Fernandez proudly presents “Dick Bradsell
Espresso Martini, ” a five-minute micro-documentary that recounts the racy origins of
the world-renowned cocktail. The film explores the memorable request of a model in
1985 for a “wake-me-up and then fuck-me-up” drink, which ultimately led to the
creation of the Espresso Martini. Shot at The Social in London—Bradsell’s favorite DJ
venue—the documentary captures a cinematic aesthetic making it a stylish tribute to
both the iconic drink and its innovative creator.
The inspiration for this documentary stemmed from a cocktail menu at London’s
Langham Hotel, where Dick Bradsell’s name stood out. A deep dive into his fascinating
story revealed widespread misconceptions about the origins of the Espresso Martini.
With its 40th anniversary approaching, the need to tell this captivating tale became
increasingly important.
At the heart of the film is Dick Bradsell’s transformative influence on cocktail culture.
His dedication to quality, bartender training, and the democratization of sophisticated
cocktails reshaped London’s drinking scene. Bradsell often hailed as ‘The Cocktail King,’
was a revolutionary figure whose impact extended beyond bartending into the creative
arts, having worked with a notable filmmaker and artists alike.
The documentary appeals not only to cocktail enthusiasts but also to anyone curious
about the vibrant history of a beloved drink. Brimming with engaging anecdotes, the
Espresso Martini’s creation story promises to spark lively conversations.
Central to this project was the invaluable contribution of Beatrice Bradsell, whose
insights into her father’s legacy and the cocktail’s creation provided the film with its
emotional core. With her support, the team secured access to essential visuals from
Mixellany Limited’s book, “Dicktales or Thank You’s and Sluggings, ” which enriched the
documentary’s depth.
Bringing the micro-doc to life required an exceptional team. Director of Photography
Jon Muschamp (recent BSC award winner) assembled a top-tier crew (including 1st AC
Sam Irwin, Gaffer Alex Magill, and Colorist Vlad Barin of Harbor Picture Company),
delivering stunning visuals. Austin-based Editor JJ Castillo swiftly delivered a rough
cut to Oscar-nominated musician Adrian Quesada within a week. Quesada’s Oscar
nomination shifted our initial timeline by 5 days, but Castillo’s dedication made it
possible! Quesada was sending me stems right up until the night before the cut was
delivered to our Sound Designer, Ruth Rainey of We Are Audio. At the time, Quesada
was in Los Angeles, and with the 8-hour gap, it was an every-minute matter type of
thing. It takes a village and support to make anything; Tom Reynolds (1st AD) kept us
on schedule, and we made our day; Jerome McCann (sound mixer) did a beautiful job,
and Katy Fray (Hair / Makeup Designer) lent her expertise and skills. Jack Sutcliffe
(Producer and Co-Founder of Arling Films), Cynthia Fernandez (Executive Producer),
Chloe Tweedy, and Lizzie Maxwell (Associate Producers) supported the project from
the ground up. Filming at The Social was crucial to capturing the right atmosphere.
We’re grateful to Graeme and Maria for their cooperation
