Graduate scoops Best Director at prestigious film awards

Congratulations to BA(Hons) Television graduate Will Wightman, who has won Best Director at the BFI Future Film Awards for his musical comedy Heart Failure.

Heart Failure follows Frank and his relationship with Lizzie, set to an EDM soundtrack. The film had its world premiere at the BFI Awards and has now been made available to stream.

We spoke to Will, who explained that the process of making his film had been something of a creative rollercoaster.

As Will said, “I knew from quite early on that the film was going to be different but it’s only very recently that I’ve been able to confirm that it’s a good kind of different!

“That’s the creative journey though: you love it, then you hate it, you think it’s genius, then you want to burn it all to the ground. It’s a cycle that I’m constantly in with my projects, even right now, but I’m getting used to it.

“I’m so glad people seem to enjoy it though and I’m glad I pushed the boat out and took such a massive risk.”

Will’s film was shot entirely in Falmouth, and the filmmaker explained that the coastal town holds a special place in his heart.

“The whole shoot took place in Falmouth, both in my student house and on location around the town centre”, Will explains. “I’ve loved living here so much, so in the film I really wanted to celebrate this place that’s been so good to me.”

Will’s success has helped to kickstart his career, and the young filmmaker has lots to get excited about in the coming months.

“I’ve got a few new projects lined up, a couple more shorts and possibly even a TV show that I’m very excited about”, Will told us.

“I’m looking to get into directing commercials/music videos over the next few years and see if I can get a place at NFTS. As long as I can keep being involved in projects I really believe in though, I’m happy!”

You can watch Will's film by following this link.
 

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