From Student Film to Sky Television
When Louis Moir began his undergraduate studies at the Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), he had no idea that a single short film would become a springboard to a feature‑length documentary that would air on Sky Arts. The project, A Brush With Comedy, started as a crowd‑funded student film that blended comedy and visual art, and it has evolved into a full‑scale production featuring well‑known comedians such as Spencer Jones, Simon Munnery, and Miriam Elia.
The Foundation of a Story‑Driven Career
Moir credits much of his confidence and narrative skill to the story‑telling emphasis at AUB. The university’s curriculum encourages students to think critically about context, audience, and message—an approach that is essential when translating a concept into a polished film. “AUB really instilled the importance of storytelling and how vital that is in filmmaking,” he says, highlighting how the institution’s supportive environment gave him the confidence to pursue his project beyond graduation.
Key Takeaway: Master Storytelling Early
Whether you are studying film, fine arts, or another creative discipline, the same principle applies: focus on the core narrative from the start. Ask yourself what the central emotion or question is, and let that guide every subsequent decision.
From Foundation Student to Production Partner
After completing a foundation diploma at AUB, Moir teamed up with Alex Page, a fellow alumnus and producer, to secure a modest budget from the independent production company Studio POW. The partnership was pivotal in expanding the short film into a feature‑length documentary, providing resources, distribution insights, and expertise in securing broadcasting deals.
Industry Insight: Leverage Alumni Networks
Alumni can be crucial partners. They have walked the same halls, faced similar challenges, and often have established industry contacts. Engage with your university’s alumni community early and explore collaboration opportunities.
Spotlighting Comedians and Creative Conflicts
A core theme of the documentary is the intersection of comedy and art, and the often invisible tensions that arise when creative disciplines collide. The film dives deep into the personal lives of performers who juggle public personas with private artistic expression. For instance, the film featured a touching interview with Vic Reeves—who grew up in the same environment as Moir—capturing the unique perspective of a comedian-artist who has exhibited at the Royal Academy.
Practical Tip: Authenticity Matters
When interviewing talent, aim for candid moments that reveal more than just surface-level anecdotes. Authenticity builds trust with audiences and enriches your narrative.
Overcoming Production Challenges During Lockdown
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unexpected hurdles. Production halted, schedules shifted, and the team had to adapt to filming restrictions. But the story of perseverance was one that the documentary itself highlighted. Moir recounts how the team reconvened once restrictions eased, capturing new footage with comedians navigating venues and private spaces.
Strategy: Flexibility in Project Planning
Unforeseen events can derail timelines. Plan for contingencies, keep communication channels open, and maintain flexibility in resource allocation.
The Significance of AUB’s Support System
Moir speaks of the nurturing environment at AUB, noting that the faculty’s focus on storytelling helped shape the film’s direction. This partnership not only aided in the creation of the project but also facilitated the outreach to production companies and broadcasters.
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
When working with an educational institution:
- Leverage faculty expertise early, especially for technical workshops.
- Take advantage of university‑run production labs or equipment.
- Seek out mentorship programs and alumni panels.
Studio POW’s Role in the Journey
Studio POW brought experience from prior successful projects like Funny Cow and the upcoming biopic Midas Man. Their guidance was instrumental in refining the visual style, pacing, and marketing strategy for A Brush With Comedy. The company’s track record with award ceremonies and TV distribution positioned the documentary for a successful Sky Arts debut.
Lesson: Choose Wisely Which Production Partner
Align your project’s tone and scope with a partner’s strengths. Matching creative vision with their output style can accelerate the path to distribution.
Broadcasting Success: Sky Arts Slot
The documentary aired on Sky Arts Freeview channel 11 on 19 April at 10:00 PM. This placement not only exposed the film to a broad audience but also demonstrated the viability of student‑led projects on national platforms.
Impact: Credibility and Exposure
A broadcast slot on a recognized channel validates the content quality and can unlock further opportunities for the filmmakers, such as invitations to festivals or additional production work.
What This Means for Current and Prospective Students
Moir’s journey illustrates how AUB’s programs offer more than just academic knowledge—they provide a launchpad for careers in creative industries. The film’s success showcases that the university’s focus on narrative versatility, technical proficiency, and industry collaboration can translate into real‑world achievements.
Next Steps for Students
Students interested in similar paths should:
- Engage in interdisciplinary projects that merge art forms.
- Build a portfolio that highlights storytelling alongside technical skill.
- Seek collaborations with peers, faculty, and industry partners.
- Document your process—self‑promotion is key in creative fields.
Further Resources and Communities
For those who want to explore AUB’s film and media programs, consider visiting the undergraduate courses page or postgraduate offerings. Joining the student union or local filmmaker groups can also provide networking opportunities.
Action Items for Aspiring Filmmakers
- Submit your application today to AUB and join a community that values story‑centric creation.
- Schedule a free consultation with the university’s career services to learn about industry pathways.
- Have questions? Write to us at [email protected] for more details on course structures.
- Share your experiences in the comments below—your insights can help peers make informed decisions.
- Explore related articles on our website to deepen your understanding of film production.
Louis Moir’s experience demonstrates that a solid educational foundation, a supportive network, and a clear storytelling vision can turn a student project into a nationally broadcasted documentary—showing that the sky is indeed the limit for AUB graduates.
