Since its launch in 2012, hundreds of talented young filmmakers aged 16-19 from across the UK have been learning filmmaking skills as part of the BFI Film Academy, learning the trade from industry professionals.
From directing to editing, from animation to documentary, participants on the Film Academy courses have produced an extraordinary variety of films, many of which are now on the BFI Film Academy YouTube channel.
Below are a selection to give a taster of what’s on offer, but we recommend you plunge straight into the collection and start exploring for yourself.
Applications for the BFI Film Academy residential programme – craft skills are now open. This course is run at the National Film and Television school over two weeks during Easter 2015.
Applications for the BFI Film Academy – UK Network Programme and the BFI Film Academy residential programme – ADSV are closed, and will re-open in autumn 2015.
Five to try
Four Nerds and a Bird
Four geeks on a quest get more than they bargained for in this quirky comedy.
Produced as part of the BFI Film Academy, delivered by the Cornerhouse, Manchester
Gloria
This lovely documentary focuses on a passionate woman from Barbados who runs a wig and hair extensions business based in Aberystwyth and Swansea.
Produced as part of the BFI Film Academy, delivered by the Documentary Academy Wales Network
Brew-Tali-Tea
You’ll never look at making a cup of tea in the same way after watching this twisted animation.
Produced as part of the BFI Film Academy residential programme – ADSV, delivered by Calling the Shots, Bristol
Comatose
Something sinister is afoot in this chilling short.
Produced as part of the BFI Film Academy, delivered by Eastside Educational Trust, London
Let the Right One In remake
An unnerving recreation of a scene from Let the Right One In (2008), using eerie lighting and special effects.
Produced as part of the BFI Future Film Academy, BFI Southbank, London