A group of students from the University of York has made waves in the film industry by securing the Best Factual Long Form Award at the Royal Television Society Student Awards for Yorkshire. This victory adds to their previous accolades, including winning Best Student Film at the Graddies and other notable festivals. The film, a documentary centered on Freddie Hunt's journey away from his father’s racing legacy towards rural tranquility, was crafted during an intensive academic module.
Directed by Thalia Saleh and her team, "HUNT" explores themes of personal identity and transformation through its subject's move to a Scottish farm. In addition to the overall award, individual craft awards were given for cinematography, sound, and editing, reflecting the high quality of work produced. With this recognition, the filmmakers are now set to compete on a national level at the Royal Television Society National Student TV Awards in London.
Documentary Production: A Team Effort
This student-led project involved a dedicated team contributing various skills to bring the story of Freddie Hunt to life. From direction to post-production, each member played a crucial role in shaping the narrative into an award-winning piece. Their hard work resulted not only in accolades but also in setting new standards for student filmmaking within the university.
The production process began as part of a third-year academic requirement where students had to complete a comprehensive project spanning several months. This included all stages from pre-production planning to final edits. Directed by Thalia Saleh, the team consisted of David Merritt as producer, Ed Shaw handling editing, Alex Weir managing sound, and Charlie Ord responsible for cinematography. Together, they transformed Freddie Hunt's personal story into a compelling visual narrative that resonated deeply with audiences. Shot entirely on the Isle of Bute over five days, the documentary captures the essence of solitude and reflection amidst nature.
Rising Recognition and Future Prospects
Beyond the regional award, individual achievements have been acknowledged across multiple categories such as cinematography, sound, and editing. These recognitions highlight the exceptional talent and dedication of the young filmmakers. As these awards continue to roll in, the impact of "HUNT" grows beyond expectations, showcasing what can be achieved with passion and perseverance.
With successes at both local and international levels, including wins at the Graddies and The Luma Film Festival, the team is preparing for even greater challenges ahead. They will represent Yorkshire RTS at the prestigious Royal Television Society National Student TV Awards in June 2025. Director Thalia Saleh expressed pride in her team’s accomplishments and looks forward to seeing how audiences worldwide connect with Freddie Hunt's story. While currently unavailable for public viewing due to ongoing festival submissions, updates about "HUNT" can be followed via its Instagram page. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone for the University of York's creative community, inspiring future generations of filmmakers.