Teesside lecturer scoops Guardian award

Heat, an animated short film by Teesside University lecturer Dr Fin McMorran, has been named as winner of the Guardian newspaper’s one-minute film challenge.

Fin developed the animation from an original idea of an old man warming his hands by the fire, this then led to the question ‘what is on fire here?’ and to thinking about different kinds of heat; embarrassment, love and desire.

The Guardian’s one minute challenge looks to aspiring film makers to create a short film no more than 60 seconds in length to a specific theme.

On winning, Fin said: 'Entering the challenge was more of a personal accomplishment for myself and I am both pleased and proud to have my film selected as the winner.

'It is great to have my work endorsed in this way and to have it seen and appreciated by such a wide audience. This type of publication gives such a real opportunity to promote your work.'

The judges were impressed with Fin’s film Catherine Shoard, the Guardian’s film editor, said: 'To be moved by a one minute animation, watched on your computer, is a rare thing. But Fin McMorran manages it without breaking sweat: Heat has more depth and warmth than many of its full-length peers.'

Henry Barnes, site editor of the Guardian film website, added: 'Days at the beach, illicit snogs, a big birthday bash with family all around. I've spent 60 seconds with Fin McMorran's grandad, but I feel like I've known him a lifetime.'

Talking about making the film, Fin said 'There is a challenge in being able to tell an interesting story without dialogue in one minute. I feel that good short films need a good narrative, some development and a character you can empathise with, whether it’s a person or a piece of cheese.

'Even in a one-minute short film, there’s room for an event, or unexpected turn somewhere in the middle. You have to be concise so focus and pace are very important.'

Fin lectures as part of the Media courses at Teesside University and focuses on online and social media in Media Studies and Mass Communications. 'I love that I can talk to students and colleagues about animation, narrative, character development - and it’s my job!' added Fin.

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