SCREEN CAREERS
We are proud to have collaborated with Culture Solihull on the third annual 'Short is Beautiful' film festival, celebrating creativity through short film.​
This exciting partnership offered young people in Solihull a unique opportunity to explore the film industry through an industry panel discussion, and a student film showcase.
"Watching my own film on the big screen and receiving a round of applause, as well as professional feedback, was such a surreal feeling. Speaking to the industry professionals offered insights into networking and the next steps for after college. Overall, I really enjoyed the experience and have gained a more solidified perspective on my future."​
-Ben Carter, Student at Solihull Sixth Form College
Meet The Panel
Becky Rooney
Becky Rooney is the founder of Rooscreen (@roo_screen) and Film Friendly (@film_friendly). She started her career working on talk shows and live studio shows before moving into specialist factual, working on popular documentaries including Britain’s Richest People, Young, Posh and Loaded and Dispatches. After moving to the Midlands, she began working as Location Manager for productions including Storyville, Father Brown, You Don't Know Me and DI Ray. Becky has also worked on commercials for brand such as Under Armour, Goldman Sachs and Electric Mini. As Producer, Becky's short films have been nominated for multiple awards including the Royal Television Society.
Phillip Ray Tommy
Phillip Ray Tommy is an actor, writer, filmmaker and stunt performer from Redditch and has worked on major feature films & TV shows such as Edge Of Tomorrow, Gladiator 2 and Gangs Of London. He is the founder of "Phrato Cinematic Arts" and has written, directed a number of short films including 'Cain & Abel' (2017), 'A Fistful of Shekels' (2022) and 'Lotus' (2025) which will be released this summer (@lotusfilm2025).
Nicola Prestage
Nicola Prestage is an award-nominated independent filmmaker and digital artist with over 12 years experience in commercial film production, documentaries, short dramas, and community filmmaking. She has created work for clients including L’Oréal, Jaguar, eBay, John Lewis, and The National Trust, and her documentaries have featured on BBC Three and at the Commonwealth Games. Her acclaimed short Which Side of the Tracks was nominated for a Royal Television Society Award. Nicola’s work explores themes of identity, love, and acceptance, using film to challenge stereotypes and empower communities through creative storytelling and workshop facilitation.
Tommy Reade
Tommy Reade is a documentary filmmaker and co-founder of IMA from Solihull. He has experience working on sets of all sizes from low budget, indie films to major motion pictures. In 2023, Tommy co-founded IMA, a multi-disciplinary arts organisation that aims to provide a platform for emerging artists through creative events such as film festivals, exhibitions and social networking events.