Our LFA Annual Showcase 2023 took place on Friday 3 November. Held at the iconic BFI Southbank, known for being the leading repertory cinema in the UK, specialising in seasons of classic, independent and non-English language films. The British Film Institute is a beacon for all aspiring filmmakers and a monumental venue in British Cinema.
We celebrated the work of our wonderful graduates from our BA(Hons) Filmmaking, MA Filmmaking, MA Screenwriting and Filmmaking Diploma. Our cohorts' films were shown on the big screen to an audience of friends, family, staff and industry professionals.
Over 20 years of LFA have meant countless creative and talented aspiring filmmakers have walked the halls and undertaken courses at our Academy. Whether undergraduate, postgraduate, or specialised short courses, our students continue to shape the film industry’s future. This showcase was even more unique as we welcomed our final Filmmaking Diploma students to the stage. The displays of talent, innovation, and hard work apparent from across the courses ensured the cheering from the credits of the final film screened echoed throughout the BFI.
Our compere Danny Leigh, chief film writer at the Financial Times, broadcaster and novelist welcomed our Joint Principals to the stage as we reflected on this year's cohorts’ achievements.
The Class of 2023 should be proud of their efforts, with a range of achievements whilst studying and lots of exciting upcoming projects. Our MA Students won two awards at the NAHEMI Kodak Student Commercial Awards, and our now BA Alumni students have formed their own production company Jacco Macacco Films. The films are expected to make waves in the festival circuit. Much to be admired and celebrated, as they make their first steps into the industry as emerging filmmakers.
The day’s celebrations continued as we welcomed our special guest British Actor, Callum Turner, best known for his roles as Theseus Scamander in 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald' and 'The Secrets of Dumbledore', Bill Rohan in 'Queen and Country', Frank Churchill in 'Emma', and Major John Egan in the upcoming and highly anticipated 'Masters of the Air' from Executive Producers Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks. Callum offered his words of wisdom and insights for our graduating cohort as they embark on their filmmaking journey.
Our talented and eloquent student representatives echoed the sense of pride and achievement from across the courses and bright futures ahead.
FOCUS CANNING sponsored the prizes for the LFA Emerging Filmmakers & Screenwriter Awards by providing the winners with professional camera kit hire for their next short films. Congratulations to our winners Katy Trevor, Filippo Bernardini, Defne Auf and Sabrina Pate.
The Green Room offered a drinks and nibbles reception but more importantly, the chance for our graduating class to network, reconnect and reflect. The presence of family, friends, tutors and classmates throughout emphasised the sense of togetherness, community and shared accomplishment that we foster here at LFA. We thank you again for joining us on this significant occasion.
We look forward to future opportunities to connect and share more moments of celebration and achievements. Be sure to follow us across our social media platforms for regular LFA updates and check this page for updates regarding photos from the day and access to the screened films.
With special thanks to our sponsors
- FOCUS CANNING
- FHIRST, who provided refreshing drinks throughout the screening.