Film Production

Joe Payne

Two mene stand in a hallway with filming equipment. One holds a water bottle, and both wear casual clothing. An exit sign is visible above.

Joe and Regan on set of The Last Show

Through my time at Anglia Ruskin University, I have developed a strong passion for screenwriting and visual storytelling. I am first and foremost a fan of genre cinema and how old tropes and ideas can be used in different and new ways to explore theme and character. This influence can be seen in the films I have written, as they range from comedy to horror but always try to centre around a strong character and thematic exploration.

As well as screenwriting I love the on-set experience. From directing and producing on films I have written, to camera operating at a music performance in the Cambridge Junction, I have loved the diverse projects I have managed to be a part of and the amazing locations they have taken me to. All of these have really enhanced my skills at many aspects of filmmaking.

Going forward I hope to be able to continue to create stories that use my love of genre in unique ways but also to continue my on-set work, broadening my experiences with a diverse range of projects.


This is a collection of the work I made both in and outside of University. It shows my evolution as a filmmaker and especially as a writer of genre films. From comedy to horror and even music videos, it shows my diverse interests as a filmmaker with each project being a step forwards in my filmmaking journey and skills.

Man and woman in a dimly lit room look at a document together, one pointing at it. A blue light glows in the background.
Four men in a dimly lit room with blue lighting, one seated in a chair holding a paper, the others standing, engaged in conversation.
Three men in a dimly lit room focus on professional camera equipment, illuminated by red lighting.
Four men stand outside a stone building with arched windows, engaged in a serious conversation.
Two men in conversation indoors; one wears a red hoodie and beanie, the other a blue plaid shirt. A hand sanitizer sign is visible on the wall.
Man in a suit, lit by green light, sits in darkness with a serious expression.
A man, wearing a black jacket and white shirt, stands in front of a market with striped tents and people walking by.
The word "BEYOND" in bold, glowing green letters on a dark, abstract background.
A man in a plaid shirt stands in front of a vending machine in a hallway, appearing to make a selection.
Joe and Karina on the set of The Last Show Joe, Regan, Jack and Emmett on the set of The Last Show Joe, Regan and Jack on set in the Cambridge Junction Still from the film 30 Minutes, Director/Writer Joe Payne Still from the film "5 Minute Break", Director/Writer Joe Payne Still from the film Beyond, Writer and Co-Director Joe Payne Watch "30 Minutes" – Director & Writer Joe Payne Watch "Beyond" – Writer and Co-Director Joe Payne Watch "5 Minute Break" – Director and Writer Joe Payne