With awards’ season well and truly underway, we’re yet again introduced to an array of mainstream and independent works deserving of acknowledgement for the effort put in both onscreen and behind the scenes. Having won gold at the Student Academy Awards for his short film Almost Home, director Nils Keller returns to contend for the main prize in the ‘Live Action Short Film’ category this year, on Sunday 12th March, with the final nomination list revealed on Tuesday 24th January. A coming of age sci-fi film that shares a story of a teenager who beats the odds, however faces a dangerous destiny, Almost Home is a worthy contender. Ahead of this year’s ceremony, Nils tells us more about exploring the film’s narrative further, working with the cast and creative team to realise the filmic vision and what it means to be acknowledged by the Academy!
Due to start production in March of 2020, Ben Tricklebank’s short film CHAMP would witness a sudden shutdown in production due to the pandemic. Spurred on to realise the pertinent film’s vision – an exploration of masculinity, societal expectations and familial bonds, the production team would go on to craft a 15 minute piece that has now gone on to qualify to be considered for an Academy Award®. Currently enjoying much deserved success within the film festival circuit, CHAMP continues to receive much deserved praise. Ahead of the Academy Award® nominations announcement on Tuesday 8th February 2022, Ben tells us more about the film’s creative journey so far!