Leeds Beckett University Alumni Win BAFTA for Best British Short Animation

The nine-minute stop-motion animation, Two Black Boys in Paradise, has already picked up top honours at over twenty festivals, including Woodstock Film Festival in New York and Best of British at Manchester Animation Festival. It now adds one of the industry's highest honours - a BAFTA - to its already impressive list of accolades, which was presented last night during the prestigious ceremony at London's Royal Festival Hall.

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."

The film, based on a poem by Dean Atta and narrated by actor and writer Jordan Stephens (of Rizzle Kicks), is a production of One6th Animation Studio, founded by Baz and Ben Jackson in 2018. It tells the story of teenagers Eden and Dula and their love for each other, tackling themes of racism, homophobia, and identity.

Dr Oliver Bray, Dean of the School of Arts at Leeds Beckett University, says: "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 student's experience. Our students are inspired by our amazing alumni, who are shaping the future of British film."

Returning to Inspire the Next Generation

Following the BAFTA win, the duo will be returning to campus for a special screening of Two Black Boys in Paradise. The event will include a Q&A session, offering current students a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insight into their creative journey and real-life industry experiences.

Leeds Beckett University's Film School has a strong track record of nurturing creative talent across directing, producing, cinematography and screenwriting, with graduates going on to achieve national and international success. This latest accolade further cements LBU's reputation as a leading centre for creative education.