Cally Coxon led as writer, director and editor on the film, which has won the Audience Award at the 2Weeks 2Makeit competition, organised as part of Screen Yorkshire’s Connected Campus programme together with South Yorkshire Film Network, as well as the Best Short Comedy/Comedy Drama in season four of the LEEDSflix International Film and Screenplay Competition.  

Cally revealed the skills developed during her first year of study at Leeds Trinity helped her create the prize-winning film, which she produced over the summer.

“Throughout my first year, I benefitted from the technical expertise and guidance of my tutors as well as consistent support from others at the University, which pushed me to step outside my comfort zone,” she said. “Working on The LTYou Show as an Executive Producer was a major turning point, that helped me realise my potential and gave me confidence in both leadership and creative decision-making. That foundation contributed massively to my achievements, as I think gaining experience in all departments of film helped the project stand out. 

“I started the project hoping to make something fun and meaningful with my crew, so to receive recognition from judges and audiences feels surreal. It’s a huge confidence boost and a reminder that I’m on the right path as a filmmaker.” 

Shot at the historic Corn Exchange in Leeds, The Desk Reformation follows a character named Molly as she shops to address her specific stationery needs. Inspired by the distinctive style of American filmmaker Wes Anderson, the film received particular praise for how its composition conveyed humour from judges at the 2Weeks 2MakeIt competition, where in addition to winning the Audience Award category, it also placed as first-runner up overall.

Cally added: “The feedback was really encouraging. The Desk Reformation was originally entered as a student short, so for it to be celebrated in the comedy genre is incredibly rewarding.”

Elric Williams, Senior Lecturer in the School of Computing and Creative Industries, said: “I’m thrilled for Cally and her course mates who worked alongside her on The Desk Reformation. It’s exactly the kind of creative collaboration we encourage here; filmmakers make films, and at Leeds Trinity, we give them the space, kit, and support to do just that.

“Cally’s project grew out of opportunities with Connected Campus and Screen Yorkshire, and it’s wonderful to see that initiative, and the teamwork, gain recognition. Becoming an award-winning filmmaker is something the whole team can take real inspiration from.” 

As a result of winning the LEEDSflix prize, the film will be screened at upcoming LEEDSflix short film events, which are held at Roundhay Parochial Hall, just a short distance from the location Louis Le Prince shot the world's earliest surviving motion picture in 1888. 

For more information about Film courses at Leeds Trinity, visit the University website.