Last week QUAD in Derby hosted the cast and crew screening of BFI NETWORK funded short film Chokehold, bringing together collaborators, supporters, and invited guests for an evening celebrating the completion of the project. The private screening of our latest short, produced by camakel productions in association with YSP Media, marked the first opportunity to screen the film to an audience.

The screening was exceptionally well attended, with a full house creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere. Following the screening, a Q&A was held with producer Catriona Kelly, writer-director Christopher Bevan, and cast members Eddie Coates, Philip Bedwell and Lis Hipkiss.

The discussion which was hosted by Ciaran Shea provided insight into the development and production of the film, from its initial concept through to filming and post-production. The panel also reflected on their creative collaboration, working with the support of Film Hub Midlands and BFI NETWORK, and their experience bringing the script to the screen. Chokehold tells the story a young teenage boy Lucas who, in a desperate attempt to escape his troubled home life, runs away to seek out his estranged father Cash, a once-famed professional wrestler still working on the independent wrestling scene in the UK.

A complicated catch-up between father and son. Lucas (Eddie Coates) and Cash (Philip Bedwell)

The team behind Chokehold the film would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the making of the film. This project would not have been possible without the dedication, creativity, and hard work of everyone involved. We are also deeply grateful to Film Hub Midlands and BFI NETWORK for their support and funding, and to Derby QUAD for hosting the screening and providing such a welcoming space for the event. Thanks also go to the team at Pursuit Pro Wrestling and all of the wrestling talent for their support in bringing to life such an important element of our story.

Finally, thank you to everyone who attended and supported the screening. It was a fantastic opportunity to share the film with an audience for the first time, and we look forward to announcing future screenings and developments soon. You can watch the trailer and find out more about Chokehold at our dedicated page for the film here.