A short film created by first-year BA (Hons) Film Production students from Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is making waves on the international festival circuit, securing multiple prestigious accolades within months of its debut.
Hemophobia, written and directed by student filmmaker Tommy Balmont, with Toby Wild-Pearmain as First Assistant Director, was originally produced as part of the course’s first-year ‘Storytelling’ module.
The film explores a psychological and emotional narrative following a young vampire whose growing need for blood descends into a debilitating addiction. Manifesting as vivid hallucinations and a disconnect from reality, her struggle places an immense strain on her relationship with her human girlfriend.
After premiering alongside fellow first-year projects in June at AUB's Palace Court Theatre, Hemophobia has quickly gained industry acclaim. The short took home Best Student Film at the London Independent Film Awards in June, followed shortly by winning Best Student Film at the New York Film and Female Actress Awards.
“When we set out to make Hemophobia for our first-year Storytelling module, our main focus was bringing Tommy’s unique script to life and pushing ourselves creatively," says Toby.
"To see it premiere locally at the Palace Court Theatre and then go on to win awards in London and New York has been an incredible experience."
Following its award success and listing on IMDb, the project has attracted widespread interest across the global film community via FilmFreeway.
The film has already been selected for consideration by five international festivals, alongside an invitation to screen at the Vesuvio International Movie Awards in Italy.
In total, Hemophobia has been submitted to a further 15 festivals worldwide, with further selections expected in the coming months.
“For a first-year project to achieve this level of international recognition so early on is a fantastic testament to the talent and dedication of our students," comments Tim Metcalf, Dean of Bournemouth Film School.
“Hemophobia demonstrates exactly what Bournemouth Film School is all about – bold storytelling, technical precision, and a commitment to compelling filmmaking. We are immensely proud of Tommy, Toby, and the entire team, and we look forward to following the film's progress as it continues its festival journey.”
Toby adds, “The support from AUB and the response from international festivals have given us so much confidence as filmmakers as we move into our second year.”
