Waking Up In Birmingham’ is a film about James Simpson, a former soldier and wheelchair Rugby League World Champion.
Last summer in the lead up to the Rugby League World Cup, Pete Banks made three films for Reign Body Fuel following some of the top players in the sport. John Bateman, Amy Hardcastle, and James Simpson, all incredible athletes and leaders with amazing stories to tell.
In 2009, James was injured whilst serving in the Army and he doesn’t pull any punches in describing the moment that almost took his life. So this film should come with a warning, as it does describe in detail his life changing injury. But James isn’t defined by this moment, but by his incredible attitude and positivity, his warmth and infectious spirit.
He says that Wheelchair Rugby League changed his life, but in truth we feel that without people like James, the sport wouldn’t be where it is today. England won the Wheelchair RL World Cup in November last year.
A massive thank you to Chris, Jayde and the Reign Body Fuel team, allowing us to champion these athletes and their stories. Thanks also to the team at England Rugby League and the talent themselves for the support throughout the production.
Jara’s new short follows a woman’s stream of consciousness as she remembers her childhood memories and wonders about her future. Based on a loose narrative of one potential date, the film explores themes of humanity in a modern capitalistic society. Featured exclusively on Directors Library, Jara’s film captured the film through computer games aesthetics, with live footage and also through modified Sims 1 screen recordings. Follow the link below to watch the film, and read Jara’s interview.
Meena chats with LLB about her mission to make the industry more inclusive and her unhealthy addiction to true crime podcasts.
Renowned for his ability to capture two opposing filmic disciplines; the first being absurd humour, colourful art direction and joyful characters. The second, a more serious and cinematic approach where he creates strong emotional stories and sensitively captures human nature. Welcome to Kode, Marek!