Published on 19 June 2019
A group of students taken under the wing of film producer Lord David Puttnam have made a documentary highlighting the plight of asylum seekers and refugees.
The Puttnam scholars – seven University of Sunderland students mentored by the movie producer – unveiled their 13-minute film ‘In Limbo’ this week.
In Limbo shines a light on the struggle faced by refugees and those seeking asylum in the region, as well as the dedicated work of the workers and volunteers trying to help them.
The short film was played out to the former Government education advisor, and Oscar winning producer of films including Chariots of Fire, The Mission, The Killing Fields and Midnight Express, at the University.
Lord Puttnam had initially given the scholars the theme of ‘goodness’ to build their work around.
Ciaran Charles O’Conghaile, 33, one of the scholars who studied MA Film and Television, said: “It was quite a wide remit but, after a lot of thought, we decided to look at the asylum seeker and refugee issue here in Sunderland and the North East.
“We spoke to people of different ages from many different backgrounds, including those from Angola, Iran and Sudan.
“I produced the film and it was an incredibly eye opening experience. It was the first factual piece I have done so to see the hostility and obstacles many of these people face was humbling.”
The Labour peer helped select the six students and was full of positive feedback following the screening of the short.
The University of Sunderland chaplain Reverend Chris Howson also played a key role in helping the filmmakers portray the hard work of those supporting and assisting refugees.
Ciaran added: “We spoke to people at all different stages. From those who had just arrived and were seeking asylum to those who had established themselves here and were already working.”
Sir David Bell, Vice Chancellor of the University of Sunderland, said: “I had the pleasure of meeting with Lord Puttnam and our ‘Puttnam Scholars’. This talented and energetic group of seven students were selected through a competitive process.
“For the past few months, they have enjoyed the benefit of David’s vast experience; learning about all aspects of the movie industry.
“Today we saw the result of the Scholars’ hard work - a singularly impressive film created with David’s guidance and encouragement.”
Lord Puttnam was the first Chancellor of the University of Sunderland (1997-2007).