Film commissioned in Exeter wins big at London Film Festival

Published: 19 October 2020

A film commissioned by Exeter Phoenix has scooped the award for the Best Short Film at this year’s prestigious BFI London Film Festival.

Tommy Gillard’s Shuttlecock won the award at a virtual ceremony last night.

Shuttlecock was created by Devon filmmakers and was one of only 47 screening at this year’s BFI London Film Festival. The festival usually selects over 150 shorts to be screened, so was a huge achievement for the region and its talent to be shortlisted let alone carry off the prize for best short film!

Written and directed by Honiton-based filmmaker Tommy Gillard, 'Shuttlecock' is a sports film like you've never seen before. The 13-minute comedy centres on macho man Carl, who is forced to confront his idea of masculinity when an obsession with a mysterious new member of his badminton club spirals out of control.

Using a whole host of talent and crew from Devon, the film was produced by Exeter-based Simeon Costello, and shot across three days in Sidmouth College's now demolished old-school sports hall. It was also commissioned by Exeter Phoenix, and is the first of their film commissions to be screened at the event. 

Speaking after the ceremony, Tommy said: "I'm thrilled to have won the LFF Best Short Film Award for Shuttlecock. Working with Exeter Phoenix to realise the film has been an amazing journey, and really shines a light on how important regional arts centres are, especially now. I'd urge every filmmaker to use and work with the arts venues close to them, as they can really push you to make your best work!”

Exeter Phoenix’s Digital Programme Co-ordinator and Two Short Nights Festival Director Luke Hagan, said: “We couldn't be more excited with Shuttlecock's success at the BFI London Film Festival.  It has been really rewarding to be able to support Tommy and his team from the very beginning.  They have worked so hard and it's wonderful to see them getting the recognition they deserve.  We can't wait to see what they do next, and hope that it encourages other regional filmmakers to get involved with our commission process!”

To find out more about Tommy’s filmmaking by visiting Spinning Path’s website  To find out more about Exeter Phoenix’s filmmaking commissions and how the venue’s film production resource could help visit the venue’s website