An award-winning film director from Heckmondwike hopes his new mini movie proves an internet sensation.

Chris Cronin has just released his latest short ‘Blockbuster-style’ fantasy adventure Sophie’s Fortune.

The 27-minute film is available to watch free of charge online.

The action film – inspired by 1980s classics such as Indiana Jones and The Goonies – has all the feel of a big budget production.

It features jungle landscapes, explosive stunts and cinematic-style special effects and film fans could be forgiven into thinking it was straight out of a major Hollywood studio.

Instead it has been produced by Chris’s company Genesis Flux Ltd, based at Redbrick Mill in Bradford Road, Batley Carr, filmed in and a round West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester – at a cost of less than £2,000.

The 10-time nominated film has received critical acclaim too from entertainment websites.

The plot follows a father’s treasure hunt at a children’s birthday party where imagination takes over, transforming it into an epic adventure.

The film boasts some talented actors including West End performer Simon Hardwick (Wicked, Grease and High School Musical), Donald Standen (Highlander and Captain America), Steve McTigue (Dragon Crusaders) and David Edward-Robinson, of TV’s Shameless and Emmerdale.

Film, camera, action: On set for the fantasy adventure film Sophie's Fortune.

Chris, who comes from Heckmondwike, said the success of the film lies with its cast and crew.

He added: “I am proud of this film and I believe we have developed a very talented team around us, achieving something visually special through skill and hard work rather than resources.”

Producer Phil Meachem paid tribute to Chris and said: “Chris has been at the core of everything.

“He has so much talent and creativity that the film really couldn’t have been completed without him.”

To watch the film online go to www.sophiesfortune.com