‘A show that forces you to engage and to care’
Fan Studios, WPP Media Motion Entertainment for 5 Streaming
“A show that forces you to engage and to care,” is how one of our judges described this inspirational and culturally significant documentary, which was widely lauded for its ability to “cause you to pause” as it unpacks the story of music industry legend Darcus Beese.
Placing a Black British visionary at the centre of his own story, Darcus Beese: In His Own Words explores a 30-year journey that saw him rise from the mailroom to become the first Black president of a major record label, initially as president of Island Records UK and then as president of Island Records US.
Premiering on 5 Streaming as a BET Original, the doc explores Beese’s heritage and upbringing, including the profound influence of his parents, Darcus Howe and Barbara Beese, and how he signed artists ranging from Amy Winehouse to Taio Cruz and Florence + The Machine. Yet rather than framing his ascent as an exception, the doc acts as a testament to the talent, vision and leadership that reshaped an industry.
“I was utterly captivated by Darcus and his life story,” one of our judges said, adding that his “was a world I wasn’t familiar with and a world I didn’t want to leave. He was truly inspirational and someone I am grateful to have been introduced to through this process.”
Shortlisted
Becoming Victoria Wood
Rogan Scotland, Phil Mcintyre and Dartmouth films for U&Originals
Becoming Victoria Wood explores the little-known story of the late comedienne’s rise to stardom, as she overcame a decade of rejection and setbacks. With unprecedented access to journals and deep insights from confidantes, the doc is for those who grew up with Wood and the next generation discovering her now.
Death in Dubai
BBC Eye Investigations, Thread Studios for BBC World Service Youtube Channels and iPlayer
This doc, which has garnered north of 5.5 million views across YouTube, exposed a prostitution network systematically exploiting young African women in Dubai following the mysterious death of 23-year-old Ugandan woman Mona Kizz. Unearthing the truth behind the disturbing #DubaiPortaPotty online phenomenon, this was a fearless investigation with daring undercover reporting.
Flintoff
South Shore for Disney+
This intimate access doc offers deep insights into the life of the sportsman and TV personality, with his wife Rachael and close friends including Michael Vaughan, James Corden and Jack Whitehall featuring. Told with raw honesty, the film reflects on Flintoff’s career, from winning two Ashes series for England to a life-changing car crash.
P Diddy: The Rise and Fall
Proper Content for BBC3
Made in the eye of a cultural storm and produced at speed, this doc tracked in real time the allegations against disgraced musician Sean ‘Puff Daddy’ Combs. Overcoming challenges around access and the ongoing legal and cultural climate, presenter Yinka Bokinni – making her BBC documentary debut – helped to deliver a doc with intelligence, empathy and authority.
The Eubanks: Like Father, Like Son
Workerbee for BBC3
Elite boxing might provide the visceral backdrop to this film, the doc’s impact really comes from its ability to move beyond the sport itself and provide unprecedented, year-long access to one of Britain’s most iconic sporting dynasties. Raw, unfiltered emotions play out as the complexities of modern fatherhood, legacy and reconciliation are explored.
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