Focus on Film: Graduate Connor on making it in the industry - and staying local

Published on 8, November, 2024

Name: Connor Langley

Current job: Director of Red Stamp Productions

University course studied: BA Video and New Media, MA Television and Video Production

Age: 33

City/town of origin: South Shields

Tell us a little bit about your current job in the film/TV/media industry and what it involves day to day

I got my start in the industry as an assistant producer, then worked my way up to producer. Those roles gave me the skills I needed to go solo and start producing my own content at Red Stamp Productions. Being a small business, there are days when I'm wearing all the hats—handling every part of production myself. But a big part of this job is also knowing when to bring in the talent, and we've got an incredible pool of freelancers up here in the North East who really help bring projects to the next level."

What is the best thing about your current job?

The best thing about my job as an independent filmmaker is getting to work so closely with local clients and voices across the North East—especially when I can share stories that don’t usually get the spotlight. There’s something really special about sitting down with community members and local businesses, hearing their experiences, and turning those into content that really represents them.

Now, with my own company, I’ve got the freedom to tell stories I genuinely care about and present them exactly how I feel they should be told. It’s incredibly rewarding to highlight our region’s culture and resilience, and it feels like I’m contributing to a more diverse media scene. Plus, it’s all about building connections—I’ve formed some brilliant relationships along the way, and that sense of community keeps me passionate about what I do."

How do you think your course at the University of Sunderland helped has helped you move into your chosen career?

My Film and TV Production course at the University of Sunderland was honestly a game-changer for me. It gave me the hands-on experience I needed—everything from scripting and storyboarding to editing, so I could really hit the ground running. The highlight was definitely my undergrad film, which opened the door to my first industry job. Looking back, I can pretty much trace my whole career back to that one project, so I owe Sunderland a lot for setting me on this path.

What made you pick to come to the University of Sunderland?

I chose the University of Sunderland because it had a great reputation for Film and TV Production, with a focus on hands-on learning that really appealed to me. Plus, it was local—I grew up in the North East, and back then, we didn’t have much of a film and TV industry here. Most people had to head down to London, Manchester, or further to get started, and I ended up doing the same. But getting to develop my skills close to home was something I really valued.

Now that I’ve set up my business here, it’s come full circle. I get to collaborate with the university and connect with the next generation of filmmakers who are building their careers right here in the North East."

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What did/do you enjoy most about your time at the University of Sunderland - and what did/do you enjoy least?

What I loved most about my time at Sunderland was the creative freedom I had with my projects. The staff really trusted me to follow my own vision, which let me create work that matched my ambitions and didn’t feel boxed in. It’s rare to get that kind of flexibility, and it really helped me grow.

On the flip side, I’d say the structure of university life was my least favorite part. As creative types, we’re not always built for that 9-to-5 grind, and sometimes it felt a bit restrictive. But overall, the experience gave me the space to find my own creative voice, and that made it all worth it.

Are you excited about the future of film/TV/media in Sunderland and the north-east generally?

I’m genuinely excited about where film, TV, and media are heading in Sunderland and the North East. When I was starting out, there wasn’t really an industry here—most people had to go down to London or Manchester. It’s moving in the right direction now, but it’s taken a long time to get here. With all the developments going on now, students and the next generation will have the chance to dive into something incredible right on their doorstep.

Setting up Red Stamp Productions here felt like a risk, but it’s paying off, and we’re starting to see the rewards. I’d love for us to play a big part in building up the North East film scene and to kick the door wide open for other locals.

What are your hopes for the future in terms of your career?

My biggest career goal is to eventually have the time and resources to dive deeper into scripted projects, which is where my heart really lies. There’s something about the depth and connection you can achieve with character-driven stories that I find incredibly rewarding. And with all the untold stories in the North East, there’s no shortage of inspiration.

A big step toward that is getting Red Post, our own edit suite, up and running. This space will bring high-end capabilities to the region that we’ve never had access to before. The goal is to create a real hub where local filmmakers can work, collaborate, and make top-notch content without having to leave the North East. I’d love to see us grow into a place where emerging talent can thrive, and where we can push the boundaries of storytelling together.

I’m really excited about what’s happening here creatively, and I want Red Stamp to be right at the center of it, helping shape a vibrant and supportive film scene that celebrates local voices and stories."

How did your University experience change you?

University was a real turning point for me. Like a lot of creatives, I'd grown up feeling like I didn't quite fit in, always feeling a bit like the other. At Sunderland, I finally found a place where I could meet people who were wired the same way, and we could all geek out over storytelling together. It wasnt just about collaboration; it was a chance to figure out who I was and why I wanted to do this in the first place.

Who are your dream three film stars to have I one of your productions - and why?

Sam Rockwell - I admire his understated versatility; he embodies the kind of talent that feels genuine yet impactful. His ability to blend into diverse roles while still leaving a memorable impression makes him a stand out for me.

Buster Keaton - Though no longer with us, I deeply appreciate his lasting influence on cinema, especially in storytelling, stunts, and comedy. He was a true pioneer whose legacy has shaped the craft in ways I can only aspire to achieve.

Roger Deakins - While not a star in front of the camera, his work as a cinematographer is legendary. A master of his craft, Deakins has significantly influenced modern cinema, particularly in digital formats. I believe much of the digital aesthetic we see today was pioneered by his innovative techniques.