In the competitive and ever-evolving world of filmmaking, every director's journey is unique. Former London Film Academy student Colin Hickey has forged his path, moving from hands-on student work to cinematic storytelling deeply rooted in his Irish surroundings.
Here, we explore Colin’s reflections on his time at LFA, his filmmaking philosophy, and his advice for aspiring directors.
The Draw to LFA and the Power of Hands-On Learning
Colin’s journey into filmmaking started in Cork, Ireland, where he took his first steps studying cinema. But he soon felt that his path required a different, more immersive approach.
LFA’s hands-on program, particularly our intensive focus on creating short films, was precisely what Colin sought.
He fondly recalls the lessons he learned from working on set, where collaboration and respect for each role— Director, Cinematographer, Editor, Actor—were key to each project's success.
From Graduation to South America: The Start of a Filmmaking Journey
After finishing his course at LFA, Colin set out on a diverse path. He first explored South America, where he made a short film in Colombia—a bold move for someone who didn’t speak Spanish.
With the help of a collaborator and fellow LFA Alumni Paolo Chianta, they wrote a script in English, translated it, and guided actors through their Spanish dialogue.
Upon his return to Ireland, Colin faced the challenge of balancing his passion with practicality. He started a business doing corporate events, and wedding videography, using these projects to support his filmmaking dreams.
The experiences, he says, became a valuable training ground, allowing him to develop a unique, improvisational directing style. He began shooting in locations that inspired him, without formal scripts or rehearsals, a process that he describes as “organic and exciting.”
Creating Personal Cinema: “The Evening Redness in the South” and “Perennial Light”
Colin’s journey evolved into creating two distinct films: “The Evening Redness in the South” and “Perennial Light”. Both projects are marked by an unusual blend of realism and expressionism, a quality that has become a defining trait in Colin’s work.
For “The Evening Redness in the South”, Colin filmed in rural Irish landscapes, often chasing the elusive light of clear skies.
With “Perennial Light”, Colin experimented even further, blending live action with animation. His collaboration with Paulo on this project was crucial.
The film explores themes of childhood and trauma, following a character from boyhood to adulthood.
Excitingly this year, “Perennial Light” will premiere at the Irish London Film Festival—a meaningful milestone, as he reconnects with the festival programmer who championed his first film years ago.
Colin hopes the audience will find their own interpretations within "Perennial Light".
Moving Forward: Embracing New Cinematic Frontiers
As Colin looks to the future, he’s eager to continue experimenting, possibly with animation again, though he envisions moving in a new direction for his next film.
For Colin, filmmaking is about much more than just the outcome; it’s about the journey and discovery along the way.
Overcoming Challenges and Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
Filmmaking, especially on a tight budget, comes with its own set of challenges. Colin speaks candidly about the creative tension he felt while working on Perennial Light.
For young filmmakers, Colin advises learning multiple skills.
His approach, honed at LFA and further shaped by his life experiences, serves as a testament to the creative freedom that can emerge when a filmmaker lets intuition lead.
Join Colin at Vue Piccadilly on 17 November at 4 PM for a "Perennial Light "screening. For tickets and more information, visit the ticket office here.