HMS Belfast

"Filming aboard the historic HMS Belfast was a dream come true. The sheer scope and craftsmanship of its spaces provided a profoundly inspiring backdrop for our project. Shooting in the Captain’s Sea Cabin and Bridge was an unforgettable experience. The historical significance and atmosphere of these spaces enriched our set with an authenticity and power that would have been impossible to replicate elsewhere. My hope for this project is for our films to follow her lead in bringing history into vivid focus for today’s learners."

"Working on the Imperial War Museum project was a great experience. I gained an insight into the life of a sailor at that particularly critical time. This helped me in the development in my character especially as it was filmed on an actual vessel that took part in the landings. From a production point of view the planning of the whole project was very well organised and my input was welcomed towards some decisions."

"Working on the IMW monologue films has been an immensely rewarding experience. I have gained a wealth of knowledge and thoroughly enjoyed every moment, from filming on the historic Belfast boat to constructing a beautiful set in the studio, bringing entirely new worlds to life. I firmly believe that every film student and aspiring filmmakers should have the opportunity to engage in projects like these."

"It was an honour working on a film for the Imperial War Museum. Getting to work with students across various courses to make a film on such an iconic boat as the HMS Belfast was such a surreal and exciting experience."

"Working for the Imperial War Museum was a privilege. It's a project that portrays the events that my great grandfather, who sadly passed away last year, was present for on the HMS Anson. In being part, I had a chance to make a film that helped me to feel closer to him. As a result, the project allowed me to work with a talented group of cast and crew to tell the story of Brian Butler for the silver screen."

"Being on the Belfast was one of the best experiences of my life. Being in costume in the setting where these sailors actually stayed is an experience unlike any other. Having an opportunity to wear and see everything that my character actually used when he set aboard this ship is a level of character development I will always aspire to reach. The staff were lovely and clearly passionate about the history that this ship contains. Being able to almost live a day in the life of Brian Butler is an acting experience I’ll never forget."

"Working with the Imperial War Museum was a fantastic experience. Not only did I learn a lot about D-Day,, these projects gave me many opportunities to try new things in film. I'm particularly interested in the art department, so finding authentic vintage props and costumes was a highlight for me. Discovering real 1940s items helped elevate the film's production and made it look outstanding. I believe these films are a fantastic way to engage younger audiences and help educate them about such a significant world event."

"Having the opportunity to work with The Imperial War museum has opened up a completely new filmmaking genre to me. Very rarely do we get to dive into a world of period filmmaking, where real testimonies get brought to life. As the writer, WRENS has always been about finding a space for the often forgotten voices of the women who played a crucial part in the war, whilst marrying together the powerful testimonies of the men who fought on the HMS Belfast. Alongside a wonderful crew, we had a brilliant time bringing these stories to life. The final film reflects the passion and creativity of a whole team of talented creatives, and it was an honour to have led the project."

“I had a fantastic time on the project. Being able to make a short, creative film for a prestigious client within their brief was a great challenge to undertake. I was able to put into practice a lot of skills I’ve gained in film to help bring the film to life. Having the opportunity and budget to build a proper set in the studio for the first time was a great experience and definitely one I wish I’d had sooner.”

"Working as writer and director on Backstage Bandits was such an exciting opportunity; to adapt such important words from real Sailors upon HMS Belfast on D-Day was an interesting way to create a narrative. As a director, I learnt a lot on this project about working with professional cast and crew and how to lead a team from across different disciplines. I am so grateful I got to tell this story with the help of such incredible people!"

"Working on Backstage Bandits has been such a learning curve: between working out ways around problems, coordinating so many different departments, and bringing to life Claudia Vogt script, it has been a rewarding experience. On this women-led film, the crew communicated and came with creative solutions to issues they were facing. Finally, we got the chance to work with amazing actresses, who all taught us so much on the industry and the people in it."

"I have really loved working on this project. Everyone on set was happy to help everyone out where they could, knew what they were doing and it was very well organised. Post-production was easily one of the most calm editing experiences I've been a part of. Working closer with both the director and the producer has been so collaborative and has had such a nice atmosphere. Really proud of the outcome too!"

"Working on the set of the film was an incredible experience that helped me to understand how a friendly team makes the long hours fun and enjoyable. I got to help with all sort of tasks working with everyone from the director to the performers, and the technical team. Overall, I gained a better understanding of the different roles and the filmmaking process, in a supportive and optimistic environment."

"Working as the DoP was an immensely rewarding experience that filled me with pride. Collaborating with individuals from various courses added a rich layer of creativity and expertise to the project. The synergy and dedication of the team were palpable, making the process both enjoyable and deeply fulfilling. This project not only allowed me to hone my craft but also to contribute to sharing important stories from our past."

"Working as a runner on the set of Backstage Bandits was such an awesome experience! All the people I met during the two shooting days were super friendly and welcoming. I got to help with different tasks and it was amazing to see how everything comes together behind the scenes. I made some great friends and learned so much. Overall, it was an incredible time; hopefully, I’ll have the chance to work with these people again soon."