STUDENTS from Kirklees College had a ‘reel’ chance to shine and enjoy the glitz and glamour of a red carpet screening for a new movie that they helped to create.

The students were involved as cast and crew in the latest film from The Co-operative British Youth Film Academy called Faust’s Growth, which received a special cast and crew screening at The Printworks in Manchester.

Based at the College’s Batley School of Art in Dewsbury, the 85 minute film was shot during summer 2012 by movie-makers John Eyre and Robin Heep.

It’s a re-imagining of the classic play Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe.

The Co-operative British Youth Film Academy (BYFA) is backed by The Co-operative and forms part of its commitment to inspiring young people.

Students are mentored by professionals from the world of film and education and offered unique opportunities to gain first-hand experience of the thrills and challenges of a real film set.

Amy Lodge, 21, a Performing Arts graduate from Kirklees College, played the role of ‘the witch’ in the film, and said: “I loved it. It was an incredible insight into an actual film set.

“It was amazing to see the film at the cinema... I want to watch it again!”

Kerry Spivey, 19, from Bradley, added: “I graduated last year from Kirklees so it was great to catch up with all the friends I made during the filming at the event and it was really exciting to see the finished film on the big screen.”

Danielle Ronald is currently in her final year at Kirklees College on a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Art.

She has secured a place at Manchester Met for this September and is looking forward to continuing her drama studies.

She played the part of a newsreader in the film and said: “It is one of the best experiences I have ever had.

“It gave me an amazing insight into the real world of acting and film. It was fantastic to see myself on the big screen.”

Amy Lodge played the witch in the new film. She is a graduate of Kirklees College and is at present working with Dance United in their touring dance company, performing in prestigious venues such as the Place in London and West Yorkshire Playhouse, Bradford.

Faye Cutting was a Hair and Beauty student at Kirklees College, leaving in 2011 and took part in the film making as a make-up artist and mentor.

Karen Matula, head of creative industries at Kirklees College said: “Hosting the making of the film last summer provided an exciting opportunity for our students to get real work experience in the film industry.

“Whether acting or involved in the many other essential roles such as film production, hair and make-up, fashion, design and catering, our students have been involved in the creation of a film that everyone can be truly proud of.”

John Eyre, 33, and Robin Heep, 31, have been involved in a number of films with The Co-operative British Youth Film Academy including production design and art direction for The Rochdale Pioneers – a film that received its TV debut on Film4 in November as part of the channel’s British Connection Season.

The film-makers said: “BYFA is an amazing platform for young talent – it shows people what is possible and what they can achieve together.

“To see the film on the silver-screen is a proud moment, not least because it showcases the skills and achievements of the many young people involved in all aspects of the film making process.”

The film-makers are now applying finishing touches in post production to the film before decisions about its distribution and entry into film festivals are made.

For further information or to see a clip of Faust’s Growth visit www.britishyouthfilmacademy.com.