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Filmmaker Interview by Chris Olson Hi Tope, thanks so much for doing this interview with UK Film Review. Please can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself? My name is Tope Laguda. A lot of people can't pronounce my name but the closest to it is toh-pay. As long as you don't call me toupe, I'm good. I am a new filmmaker but relatively late to the industry. I'm what you would call a late starter in general. I tend to do my own things in my own time. I guess that kinda makes me special. I had a stint in TV commercials as a kid in primary school, was in the drama club and the social prefect in secondary school and a really good dancer too so, it hasn't been a surprise to a lot of people who have known me from when I was little that I would eventually make my own film. I wrote the screenplay for my film, " What No One Knows " but still suffer from impostor syndrome. Haha! I am currently writing 2 screenplays, but it would be good if I could finish one though. My mind flits from one task to another and no, I do not have ADHD. Good to know haha. Can you tell us the name and a bit more about the film(s) you are working on? I am still trying to decide a name for them. I feel like a mom-to-be who will only know what to call her child once she sees their face. I guess I'll be more decisive once the story is done. If however, you mean latest latest, then it will be What No One Knows which is currently streaming on Prime Video and I'm working on the marketing for it. For those who haven't yet seen What No One Knows, what's the synopsis you give to a potential viewer? Two women, lifelong friends, embark on a shocking act of deceit, which they believe will help them both, neither foreseeing the devastating impact it will ultimately have on each of them and their families. When me and Brian reviewed the film on the UK Film Club Podcast , we loved it. Why did you want to make this film? It had been bugging me for so long! It was conceived in 2006 when my daughter was 8 months old and I tried to bring it to life, but wasn't getting any success,s and I soon forgot about it, but in 2018, when it looked like my life was going nowhere, I picked it up and started developing it. As fate would have it, the delay worked in our favour because my daughter, the same one who inspired the story, ended up playing the younger version of my character in the film. I wanted to fulfil my dream of bringing my talent to as many people as possible. That's amazing! I can imagine there were plenty of challenges along the way? Oh my goodness! There were and still are a lot of challenges. Putting the funds together, we couldn't find anyone to believe in us enough to invest in the project so, we ended up funding it ourselves. Then we had the pleasure of working with challenging actors who made production actual hell on earth. My co-star threatened to beat me up on set! It was chaotic and for a first-time production, it almost put me off but for the love of filmmaking. I always knew it was what I wanted to do. Then there is the challenge of selling the film as a black female first time filmmaker! It is an absolute jungle out there. Not to talk of falling into the hands of unscrupulous individuals who claim to be sales agents lie and take your money and not deliver on their promises. I can only talk about how I've overcome them when I have overcome them, but right now, I am still going through them and I am staying positive. After all, my film is now on Prime Video. It's another step forward. That sounds terrible. It's great you still have such a fire burning for filmmaking. Why do you make movies? The best way to get away from reality is to create your own reality. Filmmaking gives you that control. Writing allows you to decide where you want to take your characters, what you want to do to them and whether you want the audience to love them or hate them. You are in absolute control (if you have the money haha!), which is something that life doesn't allow you to do. Believe it or not, Home Alone lit a fire in me. The young Kevin McAllister, and everything about the 1st and 2nd instalment. I watched them so many times I knew the whole screenplay by heart. Shonda Rhimes as a writer/creator/producer, is an inspiration. I love me some Viola Davis and Mr Spielberg, but ultimately I'm inspired by my environment and everyday people like myself. I'm quite picky about where I get my inspiration from :) What advice would you give to someone just starting their career? Do not trust everyone who tells you they know what they are doing or that they've got experience and know better than you do. Always do your due diligence on people and ask questions. Anyone who asks you to put money down before they help you is not there to help you. Filmmaking is not for the weak, do it if you really love it. If you are going into it for commercial reasons, you might want to look elsewhere. That's sound advice. Who would you love to work with and why? Viola Davis, Shonda Rhimes, Kevin Hart. Viola and Shonda are powerhouses that will challenge me and make me unlearn and relearn everything! Kevin Hart will help me explore my funny side and it would be mad fun to be with him on set. Other than promoting What No One Knows on Prime Video, what's next for you? I will continue to work on my next two scripts which I believe will raise the bar even higher than what we have done with What No One Knows. You can find out more about Tope and her filmmaking below: https://ihaveanideaent.com https://www.instagram.com/whatnooneknowsthemovie/ #ChrisOlson #FilmmakerInterview

★★★★★ Starring: #Graham Slater, #BenRufusGreen, #Basil Bottler, #KirstyConway and #StuartAshworth Directed by: #DanielReid Short Film Review by: Alexandra James Kim is about a man who has become reclusive and is very much set in his ways, his reluctance to leave his home has forced his inner thoughts to manifest into an old red British telephone, where Kim is left constantly bombarded with phone calls encouraging him to leave his home and see the world. A very quirky and eccentric character, Kim discovers that the outside world is not as bad as he thinks and endeavours on an adventure meeting new people and exploring his surroundings, this film follows his journey and the interactions he has with equally eccentric people just like him. Kim is a rather odd character, his bedroom is filled with childhood 80s toys, and he seems to live in a very innocent world, with a fear of everyone outside, especially those that tease and bully him for his peculiar ways. However, its his inner thoughts at the end of the phoneline that force him to get out there and interact with new people instead sitting at home feeding his parrot, that is dead by the way! Although there were some scenes that appeared rather strange, this was the films allure. I really enjoyed all the unusual and weird characters, everyone seemed odd, but it became fascinating to see how they all interacted with one another. The scenery and the aesthetic appeared nostalgic in a way and created a very retro world within a modern setting. The costumes and props used to emphasise Kim’s character were so detailed and really conveyed the characters personality. From the bowl of cornflakes to the electric toothbrush and even the telephone itself, it was such a well thought out storyline that just left me wanting to know more about Kim and how his journey continues. The diverse use of camera angles and shots were incredibly clever, with the use of aerial shots highlighting just how big the outside feels for Kim and shows the contrast of how this must feel for a recluse, and just how vast and scary the outside world can seem to some. The dialogue was funny and silly and sometimes baffling but that created the charm to this short film, the nonsensicalness of this film was perfection. I loved all the characters and found them incredibly comical, it was engaging throughout with a wacky story that flowed well.

★★ Starring: #IraSakolsky, #VivianaVasquez, #AmyBuckley, #CarrieNeri, #LaurieSullivan Directed by: #RyanPhelps Short Film Review by: Alexandra James If you are looking for a bit of light relief, something to brighten your day and get rid of your Monday blues, then this short Dancing with a Dog! is the clip for you. An upbeat and visually intriguing video that shows us just how much our canine friends love being in our company. A fun-loving tune which gives the audience an insight into just how much our pets love us and what exactly are they thinking about? It’s a question that many of us would like to know, Dancing with a Dog! reveals to us exactly how dogs feel about their human companion. This short does start off in a muddling way, it is a very exaggerated clip but at the same time it is a very engaging with a catchy tune that sticks with you. There is a mixture of scenes that makes this piece even crazier, scenes with dogs dancing with families but also show dogs performing with their trainer. There is a large combination of scenes, sometimes a bit misplaced, however, it was interesting to watch. The main element to take away is that it is a cheerful short for animal lovers. There were some fun shots that helped to elevate the short by placing the camera on a dog’s back so that we can see everything from the pet’s perspective, even some scenes in black and white which is exactly how dogs view the world. The lyrics to the tune could have been a bit stronger, however, there is an innocent theme to this short clip which makes everything feel playful and engaging but there needs to be more of a flow between scenes as there were random cutaways which unfortunately did not flow entirely well. For example, the opening scene was very brief and looked a bit disjointed to the rest of the video, if there was a smoother transition which included more of a context to the rest of the video, it would have flowed much better. A simple but very fun and engaging short with a likeable tune that just makes you want to get up and Dance with your dog!

★★★★★ Starring: #RyanHayes, #BenjaminSchnau and #DeanRidge Directed by: #TobyKearton Short Film Review by: Alexandra James Kamerad, a short film based on a true story. Set during the onset of World War 1 in 1918, this is a harrowing story that highlights the brutalities of war and the humanity within man. Trapped within a crater in no mans land, two soldiers fighting for their country but battling with their conscience on what is moral and their duty. As the soldiers confront each other, the story unfolds and the audience enter a dark and dramatic setting that shows the tension between the two men, with the looming question of trust clouding the scene. The thrilling element to this film is that it is based on a real soldier, Henry James Tandey, a soldier granted Britain’s highest award for gallantry. This significant event could have changed history as we know it, director Toby Kearton captured this crucial and emotional moment. A painful but moving short film that reveals the darkness of war where every decision can become life changing. The beginning of this short, starts off exciting as the audience are quickly introduced to two soldiers battling one another to the death, throwing us deep within the heart of the action. It becomes clear that the soldiers are entrapped in a deep crater in the middle of no man’s land, with nothing but a gun and strength to get them out but only one can leave alive. As the pair struggle, it is the British soldier Tandey that manages to survive by the skin of his teeth, but soon becomes confronted by another German soldier, one who is severely injured as he crawls to the centre of the pit. Tandey is left with the dilemma of whether to kill or walk away. This was a seriously intense and gripping scene, the close ups of the soldiers’ eyes were mesmerising, you could see the fear deep within. The uncertainty with watching the action play out on screen, completely unaware of their next moves. Occasionally, the audience could sense a degree of solidarity between the two but there was still that unpredictability and apprehension, they clearly did not have confidence that they were entirely safe. This short portrayed the very real moments that occur on the battlefield, it appears as though the soldiers fighting for their country are programmed to just kill, to have no remorse and humanity it totally removed from their being. However, this is not the case, within everyone there is fear, compassion and a conscience. Although some may have this repressed, Kamerad exposes the inner thoughts that run through man when face to face with an enemy. It was a difficult watch but extremely moving and historically accurate. I was not aware of the soldier Henry James Tandey, and so the ending became a real shock and does make you wonder what if? And how would you respond when faced with this decision in the moment?

Filmmaker Interview by Chris Olson Hi Ranw, great to be interviewing you. Please tell us a little bit about you and your filmmaking? Great to be here—thanks for having me! My name is Ranw Aso-Rashid. My journey into filmmaking has been anything but traditional. I originally studied Biomedicine at the University of Westminster before becoming a qualified science teacher and later Head of Department at a secondary school. But storytelling has always been a passion of mine. At 19, I made my first micro-short film on an iPhone. Later, while teaching, I started making films with my students, which eventually led me to establish AR Studios. Since then, I’ve written, produced, and directed 10 films, including Whispers of Redemption, The Silent Choice (a KINO Original currently on the international festival circuit), and Our Little Act of Rebellion, an international co-production. At AR Studios, I’m fortunate to work with incredible industry mentors, including development consultant Deborah Sheppard, script consultant Pete Daly, and Executive Producer Marcus Liversedge. Our ambitious documentary slate is now entering production, with support from Oscar-nominated producer Hanna Polak and BAFTA-nominated executive producer Clare Richards (Founder of We Are Doc Women). Beyond my work as a filmmaker, I also serve as a judge for the BIFA-qualifying KINO Film Festival and the British Short Film Awards. Filmmaking, for me, is about telling stories that challenge perspectives and leave a lasting impact. I’m always looking for bold, meaningful narratives that push boundaries. Tell us about your new film, Our Little Act of Rebellion. How would you describe the plot of the movie? At 75, Konstantine spends his birthday reminiscing over old photographs with his caregiver, Eleni. But when he stumbles upon a picture of Aysha—a woman he met in a private music club in 1974—memories he thought were long buried begin to resurface. What starts as nostalgia soon unravels into something deeper, revealing a past intertwined with political turmoil, forbidden love, and the secrets hidden within music. As the echoes of that fleeting yet powerful connection grow stronger, Konstantine is drawn back to the club that once changed everything. But some stories aren’t finished yet. Why did you want to make this film? I was drawn to this story because it weaves together themes of forbidden love, political tension, and personal memory—elements that resonate across cultures and generations. At its heart, it’s a deeply human story about connection, loss, and the way the past lingers in unexpected ways, especially regarding experiences that have remained hidden until this film came along. Unlike many filmmakers, especially producers, I am risk-focused rather than risk-averse. I actively seek out bold, challenging projects rather than shying away from them. Knowing how complex this film would be—both as a story and as an international co-production—only fueled my determination to make it happen. I also saw it as an opportunity to push myself, working with a reasonably sized professional crew while ensuring underrepresented stories reach a wider audience in mainstream indie cinema. It sounds great! What were the challenges getting it made? Every film comes with its challenges, and this one was no exception. Time always seemed to be slipping away—long shoots, tight schedules, and the constant race against the clock. There were moments when shots needed to be changed, and I had to ensure the crew stayed on track to keep to our schedule. But, honestly, I thrive in high-stress situations, and I approached these challenges with humor and a calm mindset, which helped keep the momentum going. I made sure to personally know the crew by name, thank everyone for their efforts, and keep the camaraderie with the cast strong. They were absolutely superb, and maintaining that positive energy throughout the process was key. The live music scenes were particularly time-consuming to set up, but I leaned on my teaching background to break down clear instructions for the crew, ensuring everyone knew exactly what we were doing. Seeing the crew and cast working in harmony was incredibly rewarding. Despite the long hours, I found it all fun—there's something exhilarating about being in the thick of it. I remember when we wrapped at nearly 2am on July 31st, I still had the energy to shoot! But, of course, we had to wrap eventually. What stage is the film currently in? The film finished post-production in February 2025, and is about to begin its festival journey, courtesy of KINO London. Our world premiere will take place in Athens this summer, followed by a special screening in London later this year. For those eager to get a first look, we’ll also be releasing the official trailer on our social media channels soon. We’re currently in talks with ERTFLIX for a Greece-territory acquisition, as well as discussions with distributors for global distribution. After completing its festival run, the film will be available on demand via Vimeo and other key distribution platforms before eventually being fully publicly available online. Why do you make movies? I make films because stories are the most powerful way to connect us—to our emotions, to each other, and to the truths we sometimes struggle to face. At the heart of my work is human fragility—the raw, unfiltered moments that shape us. My stories often come from the many students and young people I have taught, coached, and mentored. Their struggles, dreams, and resilience have profoundly influenced my storytelling. I want to give voices to experiences that might otherwise go unheard, to explore sensitive topics with honesty, and to challenge genre conventions in ways that feel fresh and daring. I am heavily inspired by Frank Darabont’s screenwriting, the visceral, unapologetic storytelling of Quentin Tarantino, and the way Christopher Nolan elevates narrative through music—how a single note can change everything. There is always a part of me in the stories I write, produce, and direct. Each film is, in some way, a reflection of something deeply personal. And ultimately, telling these stories isn’t just thrilling—it’s cathartic. It’s therapeutic. My journey into filmmaking began in the classroom, at Friern Barnet School, with the support of my headteacher, Simon Horne. I started making films with my students, and that experience changed everything for me. Watching young people gain confidence, discover their creative voices, and see new career possibilities because of filmmaking—that was the moment I knew this was what I had to do. To this day, I’ve had over 130 students involved in my productions, gaining work experience, volunteering, receiving mentorship, and even landing their first paid jobs. That impact, that ability to shape lives through film, is what drives me. I make movies because I believe in the power of storytelling—not just to entertain, but to inspire, challenge, and transform. What advice would you give to someone just starting a career in filmmaking? The best advice I can give is simple: just start. Film school can help, but not essential. I did biomedicine at university and have learnt my way into the industry. Only do it if you're passionate though. Don’t wait for permission, don’t wait for the perfect camera—use your iPhone, your Android, whatever you have. Make films with your friends. Experiment. Learn by doing. The more you create, the more you’ll grow. Go to networking events. Find people who are passionate about what you love. Surround yourself with those who push you to be better. And if you’re serious about getting into the industry, reach out to AR Studios. We’re highly connected in the independent film scene, not just in the UK but increasingly in Europe and the USA. We’ve provided countless opportunities for young filmmakers to connect with experienced Heads of Department and industry professionals—people who can help you take that next step. But beyond that, understand this: filmmaking is an incredible but tough industry. Don’t enter it expecting to make friends in the personal sense—protect your boundaries, know your worth, and be mindful of who you let into your creative space. Educate yourself on the challenges and issues within the industry, and always stay informed. Read up on what’s happening in film every week using online outlets. Knowledge is power. Above all—keep making work. No one’s going to hand you a career. You build it, one film at a time. Who would you love to work with and why? I would absolutely love to work with Colman Domingo. As an actor, he brings an incredible depth to every role he plays, and his performances are always layered with so much truth and intensity. What really draws me to him is not just his talent, but his dedication to storytelling—how he fully commits to his characters and elevates every project he’s part of. I also deeply admire the way he helped bring Sing Sing to life. His involvement went beyond acting—he was part of the creative process, working to ensure the film was made with authenticity and heart. That kind of passion for storytelling and commitment to meaningful projects is something I resonate with. Working with someone like him, who not only delivers powerhouse performances but also understands the bigger picture of filmmaking, would be an incredible experience. What's next for you? Next, I’m diving deeper into TV development. I’m currently working on three TV series, one of which is an adaptation of Our Little Act of Rebellion. It’s a project I’m incredibly excited about, and I’m in talks with a potential co-producer to bring it to life. On top of that, a major streamer has officially solicited the submission of the project, which is a thrilling next step.

★★★★ Starring: #Demz, #RoryWaltonSmith, #TeniOsho Directed by: #Shayaan Short Film Review by: Alexandra James Demzzz Type Beat , directed by Shayaan follows three gang members as they make themselves known across the city, inflicting violence on those that attempt to cross them. However, for one of the members, he becomes haunted by those he has killed, and we witness the conflict between the loyalty to his crew and his conscience. With a few twists and turns Shayaan creates a dark and gritty short film and exposes the dangerous corners of the city and those that fight to become top dog at all costs. What really stood out within this short film was the editing, from the beginning the audience are met with a very enticing scene as our main character is walking towards the screen and another character is running backwards in slow motion. Very intense and dramatic and completely gripped me. The locations in every scene were similarly noteworthy, looking up at the city and taking it all in the vastness and striking buildings, contrasted by the underground dark and gloomy car parks with the broken lights adds a lot of depth to the story. The acting was a bit of a mixture, many of the scenes were convincing and reflected that hard exterior of a gangster. However, there were times when that masked slipped and points where we needed that strong, no-nonsense attitude which did not always seem to come across. For the main character, this is where that blend of toughness and fear was prominent and necessary, the character himself had many layers than what meets the eye. This was a very interesting storyline and character to pick apart, as you go deeper into his conscience you can see that there is more to him that is complex as he battles with what’s right and wrong but also keeping up this tough persona which makes for a perfect main character to follow. A very hard-hitting short film with great characters that make you want to invest more. Director Shayaan has really elevated this piece with his use of dynamic editing which really added his own uniqueness and created an original flare, these simple touches are what shapes your own stamp to your work and sets this film apart from the rest.

★★★ Starring: #AshleyLarson, #JakeMoon, #CristenStephansky, #ClareWilliams, #AndyZibritosksy Directed by: #JimHails Short Film Review by: Alexandra James Chocolate chip a crazy an absurd short film that shows the effects of how bad pregnancy cravings can get! However, this might be a slightly exaggerated interpretation, but the emotions are very much the same. Director Jim Hails creates a series of surreal scenes and introduces us first to the character Sarah Wilson, a young woman who is heavily pregnant eating snacks and watching TV late into the night. An advertisement for a chocolate chip cookie appears on the screen, this is all she can focus on and becomes fixated with feeding this hunger. After much deliberation she decides to make the journey to locate some cookies, however, along the way Sarah is met with some extraordinary scenarios. One word to describe this film would be trippy, there is an edge to this film that makes it unique and even have a retro feel to it, from the style in which the TV adverts were filmed to the locations such as the small diners and laser tag spot. The film is left to the audience to determine whether this is a hallucinogenic nightmare or an anxiety driven storyline from the perspective of Sarah. It’s an attempt to convey just how deep her emotions run from the viewpoint of a pregnant woman. As Sarah attempts to scout out the chocolate chip cookies, she has a strange encounter with a robber, who demands all the money from the till but also all the chocolate chip cookies in the joint. A disgruntled Sarah abides but can’t help but think this is completely unfair and takes it upon herself to track down this cookie thief and take back what’s rightfully hers! This film may seem a little far-fetched to some, but it does make for a funny and engaging storyline. The acting seemed overexaggerated in some scenes, but this was to match the overall craziness and did still work well. I did really enjoy the way this short was filmed the look and feel of the film did have that retro vibe which ultimately felt quite comforting in a strange way, but coupled with the crazy storyline it gave the film a twist and want to engage more with the characters and ultimately find out how this story ends for poor Sarah and her strong desire for a simple chocolate chip cookie. Jim Hail certainly pushes the boundaries of absurdities and Chocolate Chip  reflects this madness in every sense. The cinematography, locations and actors really helped to develop Hails own flare to build a very strange short film that boggles the mind and question reality, as well as really crave a chocolate chip cookie!

★★★★ Starring: #SarahJohn, #ChayBrowne, #ChrisKyriacou and #PebbleLillyLeslie Directed by: #MichaelPSpencer Short Film Review by: Alexandra James A Plus , a short film that follows a young couple, Cassie and Ade, who are determined to do what’s best for their 10-year-old daughter. Much like any parent, they want their daughter to get the best education and to thrive in a world where opportunities can be made available to her. However, at what cost? Cassie and Ade take some extreme measures to give their daughter a fighting chance and take matters into their own hands to ensure her success. Director Michael. P. Spencer’s comedy asks the audience, just how far would you go to give your child the best start in life? The story begins at a petrol station, the couple seem quite tense with each other and eager to leave and move forward with their ‘plan’. Ade walks out of the shop with some apple juice and asks Cassie’s opinion on some duct tape. With the shadiness of their actions, we can only assume that they are preparing to commit a dangerous crime and inflict violence on someone which does not suit the couple’s personality. At this stage, the audience are left confused as to what type of people this couple are, especially when listening to their conversation, as they share their thoughts and opinions on education and the best ways in which a child can learn. Things seem a little mismatched here and only makes the story that much more interesting as the plot begins to thicken. The cinematic style for this short film is fantastic, edgy and dark and completely throws the audience off the scent to the direction of the narrative. I enjoyed the juxtaposition of scenes and imagery throughout; it made for a successful comedic relief once the audience find out the couple’s real plan. Delaying that ultimate reveal made it that much funnier when we discover the family’s true intent. Without too many spoilers, this family are very keen to make sure their daughter gets good grades across the board and will stop at nothing to make sure that happens.   A Plus  is a funny short film with a few surprises along the way that draws the viewer in as we attempt to determine the intentions of our main characters and their mysterious and unusual behaviour, only to be hit with a very witty and unexpected ending. This short will lead you down a journey of a mixture of emotions but will have you laughing by the end!

Interview by Chris Olson Tell us a bit about your background, in particular some of the impressive acting credits you have. I had been acting for over a decade when, in 2015, I started to make the shift into writing/directing/producing. My family’s background is in public service and community development and although I was tremendously grateful for the acting roles I was able to play, I wanted a little more agency in what stories I was putting out into the world. I was also curious if I could use film to advocate for some of the ideas I thought were important. The short film The Last Ranger is your current project (which we love). Can you tell us your role in the movie and how it all came about? At the start of the pandemic, a fellow actor-turned-producer, Darwin Shaw, approached me about using the time during lockdown to work with other #filmmakers to tell stories about what was happening around the world at that time. We created an anthology series of 24 stories by 24 filmmakers around the world about systemic issues affecting their communities that were exacerbated by the social and cultural upheaval of the pandemic, called, When the World Stopped . We received over 100 scripts and have been developing stories with these amazing writers and it has turned into an incredible adventure around the world. Why did you want to be involved with this story? David Lee submitted a wonderful script from South Africa about game rangers protecting rhinos from poachers during lockdown. We thought it was essential for the series to have a story representing the point of view of one of the other non-human, sentient beings we share the planet with. We developed the story and were introduced to his sister Cindy Lee who happened to be a highly talented South African director. It all fell naturally into place. Also, how could we pass up the chance to shoot a film in a South African wildlife park with real rhinos, elephants, lions and other magnificent creatures roaming about? Getting to make a narrative, dramatic film with actors this up-close and intimate with these majestic animals was a once in a lifetime opportunity. What were the challenges getting it made? Obviously shooting with kids and animals is always a huge challenge, let alone when those animals weigh 3 tons. The wildlife vets and rangers at the Amakhala Game Reserve where we shot the film, did a superb job of keeping us safe and teaching us how to interact with the marvelous animals. We were also supremely fortunate to have our brave and talented actors, who delivered such astonishing performances in this challenging environment. Our young star, Liyabona Mroqoza, was 11 years old and had never acted before. The performances she and Avumile Qongqo (who plays her ranger mentor) delivered are so full of emotional depth and understanding of the human spirit, I am utterly in awe every time I watch the film. How are audiences responding to the film? We started submitting The Last Ranger  to festivals last year, and pretty quickly we were getting to travel and share the film with audiences around the world. It’s been pretty special seeing the powerful reactions of audiences witnessing a story this up-close and personal with wild rhinos. We were fortunate to get a win at the Oscar-qualifying Pan African Film Festival  and after submitting to the academy, we got shortlisted in December. We find out on the 23rd if we make the final 5 nominees. Feels kinda surreal. What will you do if you win the Oscar? It feels wild even answering this question, but it would actually give us the chance to share the film with more people and to motivate them to take action to protect wild rhinos and to advocate for broader wildlife conservation. What’s next for you? While we are continuing to produce the remaining stories in the When the World Stopped anthology, we have created a non-profit called, Kindred Films, where we collaborate with charities aligned with the theme of each film to allow them to use it to raise funds and awareness from their supporters, and with educators to inspire the next generation to advocate for causes they care about. Where and when can people watch The Last Ranger? It will be playing next month online at the Manhattan Short festival where we you can also donate directly to the game reserve. We are aiming for it to become available as part of the When the World Stopped  anthology on a major steamer.  In the meantime, you can go to kindredfilms.org  to find out more about our mission and to arrange to privately screen The Last Ranger  for a charity or student group you think would benefit from the message. #ChrisOlson #FilmmakerInterview

BAFTA have now officially announced their nominees for their prestigious EE Rising Star award, the only #BAFTA award voted for by the public which honours an emerging actor or actress who has demonstrated exceptional talent and begun to capture the imagination of the British public. Past winners have included the likes of James McAvoy, John Boyega, Letita Wright, Lashana Lynch, Daniel Kaluuya, Jack O’Connell and more. Now as the award enters its 20th year, let’s take a look at the nominees for 2025: Marisa Abela – Marisa Abela has starred in the BBC smash-hit financial thriller Industry as well as having even appeared in Greta Gerwig’s phenomenal Barbie, but has now fully stepped into the spotlight with her portrayal of the late Amy Winehouse in Sam Taylor-Johnson's Back to Black and will soon be starring in Steven Soderbergh’s upcoming spy thriller Black Bag alongside the likes of Cate Blanchett, Michael Fassbender and Regé-Jean Page. Jharrel Jerome – Having made his film debut in the Oscar-winning Moonlight, Jharrel Jerome recently starred in sports biopic Unstoppable, having already gone from strength to strength by starring in Stephen King adaptations such as Mr. Mercedes, lending their voice to both Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, and starring in the highly-acclaimed Ava DuVernay Netflix series When They See Us. David Jonsson – Also with a key role in the ensemble behind BBC’s Industry, David Jonsson has impressed further with his performance in British romantic-comedy film Rye Lane, but most recently undertook a co-leading role as android as Andy in Fede Álvarez’s Alien: Romulus. Jonsson will also join the Stephen King universe in the upcoming Francis Lawrence adaption of King’s The Long Walk. Mikey Madison – Mikey Madison is no stranger to big things, having already had roles in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood as well as the fifth instalment in the Scream franchise, but is currently scooping up awards and nominations everywhere for her portrayal as Anora "Ani" Mikheeva in the Palme d'Or winning, Sean Baker directed Anora and will soon be starring in the limited series, Lady in the Lake. Nabhaan Rizwan – Starring in such series as Informer, Station Eleven, and the greatly under-appreciated Netflix mythological comedy Kaos, Nabhaan Rizwan and their latest film In Camera have been getting rave reviews since premiering at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, and will also be starring in the upcoming drama series Dope Girls. You can vote for BAFTA’s EE Rising Star Award here .

Filmmaker Interview by Chris Olson Hi Hsi, thanks for speaking with us. For those who don't know you, please can you tell us a bit about you as a filmmaker? I am a writer, director, producer specializing in social documentaries, currently based in New York City. Growing up in Taiwan, I was deeply influenced by the diverse cultures that surrounded me, igniting my passion for storytelling. My work often delves into themes of identity, community, and resilience, reflecting my commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices. My documentary “ Find Me ” tells the poignant story of a human trafficking victim returning to my home country to find my birth family and reconnect with my identity. The film has received recognition at various film festivals, including DOC NYC and the Big Apple Film Festival, earning accolades for its emotional depth and cultural insights. In addition to documentaries, I also like to explore human emotion through narrative storytelling. My horror romantic drama, “I Heard a Fly Buzz,” examines the unrequited love between two women in the Victorian era. The original script won first place at the Annual School of Visual Arts writing program contest and was published in Match Factory Magazine in 2023. It has also been selected for the New York International Short Film Festival and the Odyssey Film Festival in 2024. My short film "The Balloons" (10mins) in 2022, a drama about grief and friendship, was selected to screen at the SVA's 2022 student film festival. "What's Wrong With Eliza" (10mins) is a drama short about a sugar baby's encounter with a client who was not who she thought he was. It is currently under post production. My Sci-fi TV pilot, A Ship Leans on The Beach (20 pages) was awarded in VII Youth Film Festival Golden Frame, and LA Under the Stars Film Festival. “Bad Faith” (4 mins), my experimental short, was selected in Progeny Short Film Festival and Lift-Off Filmmaker Sessions. Using my voice as a female director, I am dedicated to telling unique stories that would otherwise remain unheard—whether through fictional historical dramas or the real-life journeys of those navigating complex social issues. Despite coming from a culture where women in directing is a recent phenomenon, I like to embrace my background, infusing it into my body of work. My perspective has been shaped by my multicultural experiences, and I aim to create compelling narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. "Find Me" sounds like a fascinating documentary. Why did you want to make this film? Growing up in Taiwan, I've always struggled with the idea of identity and belonging. Not being able to speak fluent Taiwanese, trapped in between the cultural and historical conflict, unable to be proud of my own heritage. I didn't feel that belong in the place that I was born in, even though I called it "home." However, since I started traveling , living in different parts of the world , the further I am to my "home ," the more I appreciate the influence it had on my life. Home never meant a room with four walls, it's a place where you can come back to, a place where you don't feel alone. Not everyone is born into their identity and where they belong, sometimes you just have to leave in order to find it. That sounds like a really personal film to make. What were the other challenges in making "Find Me"? One of my biggest challenges was the budget, particularly concerning transportation for the crew and our documentary subject. I was unsure how we would be able to send Kuo to Taiwan. I created a promotional video and reached out to news outlets while setting up a GoFundMe for her trip. Our efforts led to features on Spectrum News and Taiwanese news channel The Reporter. This helped us raise funds through crowdfunding, the Taiwanese government, and various NGOs. The financial support allowed us to fly Kuo to Taiwan and provide accommodations for her and her adoptive mother, Mary, for a week. It was an ambitious and challenging first documentary to make, but I was driven by my belief in the story. With meticulous planning, my amazing crew and I brought this vision to life. What stage is the film at currently? Can people see it? Find Me is now in Festival circuit, previously premiered at DOC NYC. Congratulations! Hopefully our readers will get to see it soon. A bit more of a personal question in what has already been a personal interview, but, why do you make movies? I’ve always been drawn to the magic of storytelling. Growing up in Taiwan, my family and I would visit the local Blockbuster every week. We'd rent two or three movies, and those trips became a cherished ritual. It wasn’t just about the films themselves, but about the worlds they opened up for me—the way they sparked my imagination, transported me to different places, and allowed me to experience emotions I’d never felt before. It was during these movie nights that my love for cinema took root. It became clear to me that #filmmaking wasn’t just something I enjoyed; it was something I had to pursue. That passion led me to the U.S. to follow my dream. It’s been a journey of trial and error, with moments of doubt, but every step has deepened my love for what I do. I’ve found something that challenges me, inspires me, and allows me to express my own unique voice. Cinema is where I feel most alive—it's more than a career; it's who I am. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the film career you have pursued? I’ve always been a practical person, but what I learned from making Find Me is that you shouldn’t be afraid to dream big. Filmmaking often requires balancing ambition with the realities of the process, but if you truly believe in the story you want to tell, go for it. Your greatest resources will be your ability to manage time, your work ethic, and the people around you. The connections you build with talented, like-minded individuals are invaluable, and there are fewer opportunities to be surrounded by that energy once you've completed a project. My advice is simple: take that leap of faith in yourself. While the process will require hard work and perseverance, the support you receive from your team will make all the difference. I’m incredibly grateful for the people who supported me throughout Find Me . Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to bring my vision to life. Filmmaking is about collaboration—your story may be your own, but the process of telling it is always shared. Who would you love to work with and why? I met so many incredibly talented people at DOC NYC last November, and I’d love the opportunity to work with any of them. The experience was both inspiring and humbling, and it reminded me how much I still have to learn from others. Whether it’s collaborating with fellow filmmakers, editors, or producers, I value the opportunity to work alongside people who push boundaries and bring fresh perspectives to the table. The passion and creativity I encountered there made me even more excited to keep growing in my craft, and I’m eager to continue learning from those who are as dedicated to storytelling as I am. What's next for you in your filmmaking career? I’m excited about the possibility of expanding Find Me into a longer project. Looking ahead, I want to continue creating documentaries that have a meaningful impact—whether by telling stories that inspire others or by sparking important conversations around social issues. In a world that’s constantly evolving, I’m passionate about telling stories that reflect who we are as a community. I want to highlight both the extraordinary and the everyday people, showcasing the beauty and complexity of our lives. Ultimately, my goal is to create work that resonates deeply with audiences and helps us better understand the world we share. #ChrisOlson

★★★★ Starring: #JacobRenouf, #EvanEmanuel, #RachelScott, #JamieMarsh, #MattDavis Directed by: #JamieMarsh Short Film Review by: Alexandra James A short film following eccentric detective Ebeneezer Maisonette and his associate Percival Farley. A new case has fallen on their lap and its up to them to recover a stolen ruby and save the day. Unfortunately, they are not your typical detectives and some of their ways can be considered a little unusual to say the least. As the case progresses, things are not all as they seem and with twists and turns thrown into the mix, it made our genius detective question everything. Ebeneezer Maisonette is not your conventional detective, he has no filter and a fascinating style, from the crazy moustache to the magnified glasses, however, despite his unusual presence, he has a passion for solving crime and a keen eye for detail. This is a similar attribute to this short film, the details included from the costumes to the locations. It can be difficult with a small budget to be able find a location suitable, especially when filming a period film. This is set around the early 1900’s, so it can be tough to scout spaces and areas that are able to reflect this timeframe, considering this is a low budget film, it was great to see how they worked around this barrier and made it work, using areas with cobbled streets or cathedrals and old churches to set the scene. Each character is witty, interesting and adds a certain flare to the story. Although the central story is around a crime, the story itself is funny and light-hearted. Director Jamie Marsh has created a good balance between comedic scenes but also clever and humorous dialogue. A way to improve this further would be the editing, there were some scenes that did not have a smooth transition compared to others, however, a majority was good quality and included some great artistic techniques and Marsh was able to add his own stamp and style to this film. An incredibly entertaining short film with great comical characters, it would be great to see other episodes of this and discover new adventures for Ebeneezer Maisonette and his associate to go on, as well to really explore the characters and establish a Marsh’s style of filmmaking.