“A short film that will stay with you long after you leave the theatre.”
Manchester Film Festival opened to a full 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, following a road trip led by Harry Melling as Harry, who has decided to end his life with the help of an assassin, Liam, played by Ciaran Owens. What initially feels like a play on stereotypes soon reveals a far deeper emotional core, uncovering the dark histories that underpin such situations. Alluding to a past that raises more questions than it answers, the film feels intimate and personal, capturing the complexity of what is unfolding. When a film is able to move you so profoundly with a single word, you know you’ve discovered something truly special.
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 offered a moment for the Game of Thrones star to share his vulnerabilities around bringing his directorial debut to an audience. Hearing Kit Harington speak about his desire to challenge himself through Psychopomp, and his reflection on the support he received from the industry in making it a reality, was insightful and refreshingly honest.
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 nine UK premieres and eight world premieres, 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.