Former DAES Student Contributes to National Film Awards-Nominated Feature

May 13, 2026

Former DAES Student Contributes to National Film Awards-Nominated Feature

We are delighted to celebrate the success of former DAES student Callum Mead, who has worked on the upcoming feature film Past Life, which has been nominated for both Best Feature and Best Independent Film at the National Film Awards.

Set against the backdrop of Manchester, Past Life follows Jason, a war journalist living with PTSD, who discovers through hypnosis that he is experiencing memories connected to a serial killer from the 1980s. As he investigates these disturbing visions alongside celebrity hypnotist Timothy Bevan, a gripping mystery begins to unfold.

Callum worked on the production as a camera trainee, gaining valuable hands-on experience and learning from experienced industry professionals. Opportunities like this provide an invaluable insight into the film industry and demonstrate the wide range of career pathways available within the creative sector.

We are incredibly proud to see a former student contributing to a project receiving national recognition and wish Callum every success as he continues to develop his career in the film industry.

If you would like to support the film in the National Film Awards, you can cast your vote here:

National Film Awards Voting Page

Congratulations to Callum and everyone involved with Past Life on this fantastic achievement.