Devon-made short film in competition at London Film Festival

A short film created by Devon filmmakers is one of only 47 screening at this year’s BFI London Film Festival, one of the world’s most prestigious film events. The festival usually selects over 150 shorts to be screened, so it’s a huge achievement for the region and its talent. 

It's also the first time the festival has gone partially online, and that the award for Best Short Film is entirely in the audience's hands. Now until the 18th October, viewers can watch the film for free and vote at https://player.bfi.org.uk/free/film/watch-shuttlecock-2019-online.

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. 

Tommy Gillard said: "When making films in Devon, London and the film-industry can feel a million miles away. Watching and voting for ‘Shuttlecock’ is a great way to support local talent and regional arts organisations like Exeter Phoenix - which is important now more than ever." 

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.  

Luke Hagan, Exeter Phoenix Digital Coordinator said: “It’s a real privilege for Exeter Phoenix to be able to support regional filmmaking talent and seeing the success of ‘Shuttlecock’ on the festival circuit has been very exciting for everyone involved.” 

To vote and watch for free, visit https://player.bfi.org.uk/free/film/watch-shuttlecock-2019-online