UCM Students Shine on Professional Film Sets

Students from the University College Isle of Man (UCM) have been making waves in the film industry, gaining hands-on experience and earning accolades for their contributions to high-profile productions.

First-year Creative Media students, Cemal Kilic and Daisy Quinn, have been actively involved in the acclaimed short film No Man Is an Island, directed by John Craine and produced by Diarmuid Hughes and Bev Lawley. The film, which explores Britain’s historic push for gay rights, was recently featured by The Guardian.

John Craine has delivered annual cinematography workshops at UCM as a guest lecturer for the past two years, and from this, and from that encounter UCM students enjoyed experience working on the filming and postproduction of No Man Is an Island.

From John’s workshop, Cemal Kilic was particularly inspired to pursue cinematography and went on to work as a production runner on No Man Is an Island. Since then he contributed to the BBC series This City is Ours, has worked as a camera trainee on Alone With You and recently stepped up to 2nd Assistant Camera on The Catch, starring John Rhys-Davies. Cemal is working on a placement at Lime Pictures next month.

Daisy Quinn served as trainee editor on No Man Is an Island and was so impressive that she was credited as Assistant Editor. Daisy is now heading to Birmingham City university to study digital film production specialising in editing.

Jackson Gatt contributed as Assistant Editor for several days and was described by Editor Edward Crompton as ‘an invaluable help in post-production’.

Art students Summer Randle and Niamh Paige played valuable roles in managing wardrobe for a cast of 25, ensuring continuity and even assisting the design team.

John Craine, who wrote and directed the film which was released in May this year, said: “All of the students were a huge credit to UCM; their dedication and skill were evident throughout the production, and we thoroughly enjoyed having them as part of the production team. It’s also fantastic to see those students progressing in the industry and I look forward to seeing what they produce in the future.”

Jesamine Kelly, UCM’s Principal, said: “These students exemplify the talent and professionalism fostered at UCM. Their contributions have not only enriched their own learning but also added real value to professional productions. A huge well done to all the students involved.”