'This means absolutely everything': Leeds Beckett alumni win BAFTA for Best British Short Animation
Leeds Beckett University is celebrating after two of its former students took home a prestigious accolade at last night’s BAFTAs.
Northern Film School alumni Baz Sells and Ben Jackson won the BAFTA for Best British Short Animation last night at the awards ceremony at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Their nine-minute stop-motion animation, Two Black Boys in Paradise, adds the prestigious award to an already impressive list of accolades, including top honours at more than 20 festivals such as the Woodstock Film Festival in New York.
Celebrating the win, director Baz Sells said: “The recognition is incredibly welcome because so many people worked so hard.
“There were a lot of tough challenges that were only overcome because we had such an extraordinary crew. I’m so proud of Ben and Dean for bringing their stories to the screen and allowing us collectively to share it with the world.”
Producer Ben Jackson added: “This means absolutely everything beyond my wildest dreams.”
Two Black Boys in Paradise is based on a poem by Dean Atta and narrated by musician and writer Jordan Stephens, of Rizzle Kicks fame.
It was produced by One6th Animation Studio, which Baz and Ben founded in 2018, and tells the story of teenagers Eden and Dula and their love for each other as they tackle themes such as racism, homophobia and identity.
Dr Oliver Bray, Dean of the School of Arts at Leeds Beckett University, said: “We are immensely proud of Baz and Ben, and their extended network, on this remarkable achievement. Winning a BAFTA is an extraordinary honour and a testament to their talent and dedication.
“We are also proud of the strength of creative practice and industry-focused learning here at Leeds Beckett, and the calibre of learning our students experience. Our students are inspired by our amazing alumni, who are shaping the future of British film.”