Film Alumna Hope Dickson Leach ‘05 has been named Breakthrough Brit by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts. Leach's debut feature, The Leveling, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last year where it received the inaugural IWC Filmmaker Award.
The Leveling is set in Somerset, England. It tells the story of a trainee veterinarian Clover Catto who returns to the farm where she grew up after hearing news that her brother Harry has died - in what appears to be a suicide.
Leach started off the industry as a runner and production assistant before studying filmmaking at the Columbia University School of the Arts, where her graduation short The Dawn Chorus played at prestigious festivals worldwide. Leach also founded Raising Films, a campaign to understand the challenges faced by parents working in the film industry.
Breakthrough Brits, in partnership with Burberry, showcases and supports the next generation of British creative talent in film, television, and games. Each year, up to 20 talented newcomers are selected by a stellar industry Jury to take part in a year-long mentoring and guidance program.
Breakthrough Brits receive non-voting membership of BAFTA for a year, giving them free access to BAFTA events and screenings and to member space at 195 Piccadilly. In addition, BAFTA supports each Breakthrough Brit by working with them to create a tailored year of mentoring and career development.
