Lymington director picks up national award with The More You Ignore Me

A DIRECTOR from Lymington was part of the team winning best comedy with his debut movie at this year’s National Film Awards UK.

The More You Ignore Me directed by Keith English is from top comedian Jo Brand's screenplay from the critically acclaimed novel of the same name.

Keith and the team were among a string of winners on the night including famous actors Idris Elba, Michael Caine and Rupert Everett.

The film is a darkly funny coming-of-age story about an unconventional 1980s family in rural England.

As well as Mrs Brand herself, it features well-known actors like Sheridan Smith, Mark Addy and Ella Hunt and is set to songs by The Smiths. It was produced by Debbie Gray and Genesius Pictures.

Along with directing films, Keith also runs his own production company, Velvet Pictures, alongside his wife Claire Cottrell.

Speaking after their win, Keith said: “It means so much to get this special film recognised, it has such heart and Jo has done a brilliant job of writing it for the screen.”

The winners are decided by fans who voted online for their favourite films and stars.

He added: “We were thrilled that such a small, independent but much-loved film won on the night. We can only thank everyone who voted for us.

“Hopefully more people will seek it out and watch it in their homes or at the cinema.”

He said Mrs Brand wore her lucky steel toe-capped boots to the ceremony at Porchester Hall in central London.

After the win, the film’s Facebook page posted: “We won! Best comedy at the National Film Awards went to The More You Ignore Me! Huge thanks to everyone who voted and supported this film!”

The film will be screened as part of the New Forest Film Festival which runs 8th-16th June. For more information go to www.filmnewforest.com/film-festival/.

The film is available to rent at Visual Vibes in Lymington. It can also be found on Amazon Prime and as a DVD.