A passionate group of young people had the exciting opportunity to take part in the BFI Academy Short Course - for the first time in Hastings and St Leonards. The Bright Foundation was part of a network of BFI Academy across the South East region led by Screen South. The programme provided a unique platform for participants to develop valuable industry skills whilst creating their own short film. 

The weeklong course brought young people between the ages of 16 to 19 together, to work alongside industry professionals, helping them develop both technical and creative skills in filmmaking. Through a series of workshops, masterclasses, and practical sessions, participants gained invaluable insights into the industry. 

The course was led by award-winning film industry professionals, Nick Pilton and Rebecca E Marshall. Participants received talks and masterclasses from Andrew Kotting, Jaine Green, Jess O’Kane, Harry Baker, and Tony Grisoni.

As part of the programme, they worked as a team to produce a short film shot on Glynde Gap Beach, which will be showcased at screenings in Hastings and London, alongside other BFI Academy projects.

"Our young filmmakers were an inspiration to me during the course, such commitment, enthusiasm and good old fashioned hard work! I was blown away by the creativity they demonstrated and even more so by their sense of responsibility. They have made a wonderful short film that asks important questions about how we live and how we treat our environment. I have no doubt that this cohort will go onto bigger and brighter things in the industry both in front of and behind the camera" Nick Pilton

"What a fantastic crew of young filmmakers writing and bringing to life an eco hour short film with scathing wit, shot in a single day on a beautiful location here in Hastings. Can't wait to share it with everyone!" Rebecca E Marshall.