A live action comedy short film by Illustration Programme Leader, Niel Bushnell is premiering as part of an exciting new scheme by Tees Valley Screen to support talent, ambition and growth across the region’s screen industries.

Called DCSS, the film is a sketch about class and social standing starring comedian Hal Branson, pictured below left, and actor Daniel-John Williams, pictured right, and it is one of six recently commissioned BFI Comedy Microshorts.

The first airing of Niel’s film is as part of the the third episode of Tees Valley Screen Socials, events that provide an opportunity to hear from inspiring guest industry speakers, share ideas and meet others working in film, television, animation, games, VFX and immersive media over a drink.

Niel, who is an established animator, illustrator and artist whose work has featured in Disney productions and Marvel Comics said: “It’s my first bit of live action writing and directing.”

The Tees Valley Screen project is an innovative new collaboration between Northern Film + Media, the north east’s creative industries development agency, and Tees Valley Combined Authority.

It is funded by the ERDF through Creative Industries Business Support and Development Programme 2014-20, which is bringing over £300m into the North East to support innovation, enterprise and business support across the region.  Additional funding support for this project is from Tees Valley Combined Authority and Arts Council England.

Tees Valley Screen Social #3 takes place on Wed, 16 October from 18:30 – 21:00 at Hartlepool Art Gallery, Church Street, Hartlepool TS24 7EQ

Tickets are free but places must be reserved.  Tickets can be booked at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tees-valley-screen-social-3-tickets-75156293497