Young filmmakers

Budding filmmakers show why community is so important

Four young filmmakers from Salford have showcased their debut feature film at the prestigious British Film Institute in London.

Young filmmakers Demi Higgins, Kira Hughes, Paige Heywood, Cameron Cookson and Sheldon Thornton have written, directed and produced their own short documentary about life on the Sutton Estate in Salford with residents recounting happy memories of their homes.

The short film called Genre was produced as part of a national programme funded by affordable housing provider Affinity Sutton working with not-for-profit film and production company Chocolate Films.

It was premiered alongside six other films – all inspired by the theme of roots - from young people in London, Plymouth, Bradford and Birmingham at the British Film Institute at London’s South Bank on Saturday 14 January.

Joanne Rich, Youth Engagement Manager for Affinity Sutton, said: “As a business for social purpose, we are committed to helping people put down roots and we also want to help create places for communities to thrive. This project enabled us to get a real insight into what young people’s perceptions of where they live and their aspirations and we wanted this event to be a real celebration of their achievements.”