Film by Bournemouth student scoops international awards

A first-year university student has celebrated international success with a short film about a young vampire.

Hemophobia was written and directed by Tommy Balmont while he was studying for a BA in film production at Arts University Bournemouth (AUB).

The short film premiered in June, going on to win Best Student Film at the London Independent Film Awards and the New York Film and Actress Awards.

The film follows a young vampire's descent into an addiction to blood and the impact it has on the relationship with her human girlfriend.

Balmont created the film as part of the course's first year storytelling module, alongside Toby Wild-Pearmain as first assistant director.

Wild-Pearmain said: "When we set out to make Hemophobia, our main focus was bringing Tommy's unique script to life and pushing ourselves creatively.

"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."

Now listed on IMDb, the film has been selected for consideration by five international festivals, alongside an invitation to screen at the Vesuvio International Movie Awards in Italy.

Dean of Bournemouth Film School at AUB, Tim Metcalf, said: "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.

"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."

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