Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is celebrating another major accolade as 2026 graduate animation On Point, directed by Szara Shahril-Rauz, has been awarded the prestigious David Holman Prize for Best Student Film at the Purbeck Short Film Competition.
The victory marks an extraordinary milestone for the University, securing its fifth consecutive year of accolades at the festival, where AUB graduate animations have consistently claimed either the Student Award or Audience Award.
Described by festival judges as an ‘expressive ballet animation’, On Point stood out amongst a competitive field during the festival’s landmark 30th anniversary edition.
The event drew its largest crowd to date, opening the balcony seating at The Mowlem in Swanage to accommodate film enthusiasts and industry professionals.
“We are extremely proud of our 2026 graduates and delighted to see On Point recognised with the David Holman Prize," says Dorian Terkelsen, Production Manager on BA (Hons) Animation Production at AUB.
“Winning an award at Purbeck for the fifth consecutive year is a testament to the remarkable talent, hard work, and creativity of our students, as well as the ongoing dedication of the course team. A huge thank you to the festival for celebrating their fantastic work.”
The annual Purbeck Short Film Competition forms a key part of the broader Purbeck Film Festival, celebrating creative filmmaking excellence across live action, documentary, and animated shorts.
