‘A stunning piece of filmmaking and top tier masterclass in the crime documentary genre’
ITN Productions for Netflix
“This one had it all,” one of our judges enthuses, calling the feature-length film “a stunning piece of filmmaking and top tier masterclass in the crime documentary genre”. Another praises the “phenomenally made” documentary’s use of “brilliant unseen archive”, while a further judge commended its “real sense of respect for the case” and the families involved.
The Investigation of Lucy Letby explores one of the most well-known criminal cases in recent times. Utilising exclusive access to contributors from both the prosecution and the defence, the film takes an impartial but journalistically rigorous approach, allowing the audience space to form their own opinions.
The documentary puts the individuals and organisations involved front and centre, reflecting on themes of systematic failure, whistleblowing and the complexities of proving criminal intent in medical settings. Much of this access was secured across five years of communication with Cheshire Police maintained by the producers.
The film is also notable for its innovative approach to technology, using AI to anonymise contributors. This allowed more control over how interviewees are represented and enabled better connection to the audience while still protecting their identities.
Shortlisted
Convicting My Ex
Story Films for BBC
While maintaining rigorous duty of care, this film sought to innovate standard storytelling by weaving two separate timelines to tell the story of a rape survivor who secured evidence that led to her abuser’s conviction. A non-traditional filming approach was taken, to allow for the director’s access needs.
Death of a Showjumper
Walk on Air Films & Sky Studios for Sky
This film aimed to uncover the hidden realities of coercive control and domestic violence, focusing on the victim rather than her perpetrator, and exposing institutional failures at play. The film offers substantial access, including to a police officer who had to declare himself a whistleblower to take part.
Love Con Revenge
Twenty Twenty Productions for Netflix
In this film, a Tinder Swindler victim turns advocate as she investigates other romance fraud cases. Putting victims front and centre, and with no formal convictions to rely on, Twenty Twenty committed to the meticulous verification of evidence, creating a film that prompted hundreds more victims to come forward.
Murder Case - The Vanishing Cyclist
Firecrest Films for BBC
Firecrest secured intimate access and used fixed rig cameras to create an immersive experience of one of the UK’s most unique criminal cases. A culmination of years building relationships with Scottish justice institutions, this film provided an opportunity for documentary-makers from outside London to develop their craft.
Nicholas Rossi: Predator on Trial
Firecrest Films for Prime Video UK & Ireland
This two-parter blends true crime investigation and courtroom drama. The small team secured exclusive courtroom filming rights and worked across multiple international locations on a short turnaround, delivering unprecedented access to the case of a man accused of a multitude of offences who went to extreme lengths to evade justice.
The Killing Call
BBC World Service for BBC
This examination into the death of a Punjabi hip-hop star reflects a commitment to stories underrepresented in the global media. Blending investigative journalism with cinematic storytelling, the team secured a confrontation with the gangster who takes credit for the killing and integrated an accompanying podcast to create a multi-platform experience.
AWARD SPONSORED BY ABBAS MEDIA LAW
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