Young Shropshire film-makers to get red carpet treatment - watch their movie, Altitude, here
A group of young film-makers from across Shropshire will be walking the red carpet next week after being nominated for a national award.
The 19-strong group, who are aged between 16 and 18, will be heading to the Into Film Awards in London on Tuesday.
They have been nominated for their film Altitude in the Best Animation 13 and Over category.
The film was inspired by the anecdotes of pilots in the First World War who went on to perform alongside female wing walkers in aerial display teams. It reflects upon the horror of war and the post-war years of thrill-seeking entertainment.
Watch the film Altitude here:
The group came together to make the film while learning about film and filmmaking as part of BFI Film Academy with MediaActive.
They were invited to create a film as part of the wider First World War commemorations and to mark the birth of the RAF in 1918.
Richard Hepenstal, from MediaActive Projects, said: "The young film-makers who made this fabulous film have demonstrated all of the best qualities that the British film industry is built on – creativity, collaboration, enthusiasm and skills development – and of course, a lot of hard work.
“The team is very proud of the nomination, to be one of just three animations shortlisted in their category, and they are super excited about the trip to BFI Southbank for the awards. Fingers crossed.”
One of the group members, Sophie Cartwright, aged 17, of Wem, said: “I’m pleased to say that it has been an amazing experience working with a great community who love doing things involving filming. I have learnt so much by making the film, and so many new techniques which will be very beneficial for my future choices.”
The star-studded awards ceremony, hosted by TV and radio presenter Gemma Cairney, will be held at BFI Southbank in London.
The awards are hosted by film education charity, Into Film.
The awards pay tribute to outstanding young people who have shown exceptional achievements in filmmaking or film reviewing, and to educators who have demonstrated inspirational use of film in the classroom at the annual awards.
The short films nominated explore a wide range of issues, often pertinent to their age group such as bullying, self-confidence, school, friendships and first relationships.
The awards will be judged by a panel of industry leaders.
Paul Reeve, chief executive officer of Into Film, said: “The Into Film Awards are a jewel in the crown event and a unique opportunity to celebrate young people and their teachers’ incredible achievements working with film throughout the year.
“I am very proud to be able to showcase such remarkable creative talent and passion for film, and equally proud of the film industry’s wonderful support of the awards.
“With the current squeeze on arts and creative subjects in many schools, it is more important than ever that we’re able to recognise their importance, and demonstrate the hugely positive impact they have on young people’s lives and learning.”
The Into Film Awards are made possible thanks to the support from the film industry through sponsorship.
This year’s education partners are NATE – National Association for the Teaching of English, Guardian Teacher Network and First News.
