Director calls a ‘wrap’ on student production

MOVIEmakers: Oldham’s Adam Lee Hamilton (seated centre) with students during the making of the film.

Adam’s movie has a new take on the Bard
AN Oldham-born director has led more than 150 young moviemakers in creating a full-length feature film.

Adam Lee Hamilton (31) has completed a hectic five-week shooting schedule with the students, who gave up their school summer holiday to be cast and crew for the Co-operative British Youth Film Academy’s (BYFA) latest production.

The academy gives 14 to 25 year-olds a hands-on film-making experience — everything from acting to make-up, wardrobe to camera and, following a period of post-production, there will even be a red-carpet experience next year for the new film, Henry IV Part 1.

The screen adaptation of the Shakespeare classic, one of four the academy will shoot this summer, mixes original Shakespearean language with new text to engage and grab the attention of a new audience.

The shoot took place at the Shrewsbury College of Arts and Technology.

The Chronicle reported in March how Mr Hamilton, who grew up in Royton and is a former Oldham College film and media student, co-directed the academy’s movie “Julius Caesar”, which enjoyed a special cast and crew red-carpet premiere screening in Manchester.

The film has now been accepted into this year’s prestigious Raindance Festival.

Mr Hamilton said: “This summer’s filming went fantastically well. BYFA gives 14-25-year-olds the opportunity to learn the trade and express themselves, taking creative risks in a safe environment.

“It is fantastic to work with the students, they have so much heart and passion and it is rewarding to see them flourish.

“It is a huge platform for young talent. Some don’t even realise that they have got the ability but when you show them the possibilities it is amazing to see the change in them.

“The finished film will showcase the achievements of the young people involved in all aspects of its production.”

Since 2009, BYFA has worked with more than 10,000 students, while the Co-operative Group has recently announced its continued support.

The Co-operative’s £1.2 million, six-year partnership now extends until at least 2015.

Michael Fairclough, the Co-operative Group’s head of community and cCampaigns, said: “When opportunities, passion and enthusiasm collide it can truly be life changing and, this is exactly the kind of exciting environment that BYFA creates.

“The Co-operative’s partnership with BYFA is playing a key role in helping us to bring about a cultural shift in the way young people are viewed and treated in this country — a key objective of our commitment to inspiring young people.”

Students or colleges wanting more information about the Co-operative British Youth Film Academy should visit the academy website, www.britishyouthfilmacademy.com.