“A short film that will stay with you long after you leave the theatre.”
Manchester Film Festival opened to a packed auditorium at Aviva Studios. The 11 day festival celebrates film across the city with an action packed programme of events. In its 12th year, the festival continues to grow. The opening event was a double bill of Kit Harrington’s Psychopomp and Jan Komasa’s The Good Boy.
Psychopomp is an excellent black comedy short film following a roadtrip starring Harry Melling as Harry who has decided to end his life with the help of assassin Liam played by Ciaran Owens. What feels like a play into stereotypes at the start, the film shows the depth of emotions and dark history that sits under such situations. Eluding to a past that only leads to more questions makes the film feel close and personal, totally capturing the complexity of what is unfolding. When a film is able to move you so deeply with one word, you know you have uncovered a gem.
Filming took place in the North of England across Leeds , Kirkstall, Ilkley Moor and Barton-upon-Humber, something Kit Harrington spoke of fondly in the Q&A that followed and cited that being a reason for the film being shown at the festival with him in attendance. The film was shot over three days, with half a day dedicated to the incredibly sombering Humber Bridge Scene.
The Q&A also allowed the Game of Thrones star to share his vulnerabilities around bringing his directorial debut to an audience. Hearing Harrington discuss his desire to challenge himself to create Psychopomp and realise how supportive the industry has been to help him achieve this goal was so interesting and honest to hear.
The Q&A also highlighted the genuine comradery across the production team and actors, with Owens praising how good it was to have an actor in the directors shoes who understands the relationship building needed to deliver such an emotionally complex performance. Harrington commented that he would want to direct again and for anyone who watches Psychopomp, they will certainly be looking forward to the next project he works on.
Showcasing 52 feature films, including 9 UK premieres and 8 world premiers, catch the Manchester Film Festival until 29th March. Tickets are available here.
Psychopomp was followed by The Good Boy – the reviewer did not attend this part of the event.