Creativity Takes Centre Stage at the Five Lamps Films Awards in Derby

A Warm Celebration of Derby Filmmaking at Dubrek Studios

The Five Lamps Films Awards 2025 brought a full audience into Dubrek Studios for an evening that blended celebration, screenings and community pride. Guests were welcomed with food and drinks on arrival, and the organisers confirmed that submissions for the next Five Lamps event, taking place on 28 January, are now open, with a deadline of 31 December. The announcement created an immediate stir among filmmakers eager to enter new work.

A Night Crafted for Filmmakers and Film Lovers

The evening began with a film themed quiz. Two rounds, five questions each, all focused on Oscars history. It proved far more difficult than expected, with most tables struggling and myself managing only a single correct answer, much to the amusement of those nearby. The quiz did its job, loosening up the room and getting everyone talking.

The first short film screening followed, with the Christmas themed Philip and Dasher by Charles Evans receiving a warm response. The film, centred around a man and his turtle, set a comedic tone before the awards.

After a short break, the organisers explained that judging had moved from internal decision making to now include external industry professionals. This year’s judges included filmmaker Tom Wilton, originally from Derby and now based in New York, and Gina Deuters of In.2 Films, whose credits include major studio productions. Their involvement brought professional insight to the selection process.

The Awards

The first award of the evening, Best Student Film, highlighted three strong entries: A Touch of Colour, Mum and Pocket Change. After consideration, the judges awarded the category to both A Touch of Colour and Pocket Change, resulting in a deserved draw that recognised two standout student productions.

Best Technical celebrated the craft that underpins each film. Nominations included Ash Connaughton for his cinematography on Daniel’s Room, Cody Leight Standard for his cinematography on Boys and Girls and Amrita Mudan for her special effects work on Daniel’s Room. The award went to Ash Connaughton for his striking visual contribution to Daniel’s Room.

The Best Challenge Film category featured three very different films, with Notice, Star Pilot Error and Trash Talk competing for the title. Trash Talk secured the win with its confident style and strong execution.

In the Best Supporting Actor category, performances by Harry Hindley, Dani Tonks and Wilf Williams stood out throughout the year. The judges selected Dani Tonks as the winner for her compelling performance in The Other.

Best Actor recognised three memorable lead roles from Dani Mosley, Paul Copley and Shannon Anthony. The award was presented to Dani Mosley for her performance in Boys and Girls.

The final award of the night, Best Film, brought together the most acclaimed projects of the year. Boys and Girls, Daniel’s Room and Ticker were all in contention, with Boys and Girls taking the top prize.

A Community Worth Celebrating

After the awards concluded, the night continued with conversation, celebration and a relaxed after party. Filmmakers discussed future projects, congratulated one another and reflected on the year’s work. The Five Lamps Films Awards once again demonstrated the strength of Derby’s creative community and the talent emerging from it.

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