A short film follows a young talented footballer called Simon, who’s secret passion for voguing collides with his teammates disapproval- until his best friend Les pushes him to reach out of his comfort zone to be who he truly is. Championing LGBTQ+ representation in football and championing the bravery it takes to be authentically yourself. This is Jo’s third collaboration with Cassandra Virdee.
Realness premiered at the BFI and screened on Channel 4. It’s available via Channel 4 on demand.
Film4 and Channel 4 world premiere 2023
WINNER FUNDING FUTURES AWARD 2023
WINNER IRIS PRIZE YOUTH JURY AWARD 2023
WINNER BEST FILM AWARD- BENDIGO FILM FESTIVAL 2024
WINNER BEST DIRECTOR- INDEPENDENT FILM AWARDS 2023
NOMINEE BEST SHORT FILM- BRITISH SHORT FILM AWARDS 2023
NOMINEE IRIS PRIZE BEST BRITISH 2023
NOMINEE BEST DIRECTOR- FILM THE HOUSE UK PARLIAMENT FILM COMPETITION 24
Long Beach QFilm Festival 2024
Queer Rhapsody Film Festival 2024
Connecticut LGBTQ Film Festival 2024
London Independent Film Festival 2024
Rainbow Visions Film Festival 2024
Out Film, Connecticut LGBTQ+ Film Festival 2024
Roze Film Festival Amsterdam LGBTQ+ 2024
C/O Pop Festival Cologne 2024
Football Pride Manchester 2023
Bolton Film Festival 2023
Palm Springs Short Fest 2024
Out On Film Atlanta's LGBTQ Film Festival 2024