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Debut Director's Poignant Tale of Friendship Earns Major Award Nominations
20 Oct
Summary
- Debut film by writer-director Lee Knight
- Follows an elderly woman's unexpected friendship with her young neighbor
- Eligible for Academy Award and BAFTA for best short film
In 2025, a new short film, "A Friend of Dorothy," is making waves in the industry. The project marks the filmmaking debut of writer-director Lee Knight, who also serves as an executive producer.
The film follows the story of Dorothy (played by Margolyes), an elderly woman living alone, and her unexpected friendship with her young neighbor, JJ (Alistair Nwachukwu). The heartwarming tale has already garnered multiple award wins at qualifying festivals throughout the year, making it eligible for both the best live-action short film at the 2026 Academy Awards and the BAFTA for best British short film.
The film has received high praise from industry veterans, including three-time Oscar nominee and three-time Tony Award winner Stephen Daldry, who called it "a mini masterpiece." Sonia Friedman, a renowned producer, also expressed her pride in supporting the project, stating that it will "resonate far beyond the screen, sparking conversations about loneliness, friendship, identity, and the power of art to change hearts and minds."
With its compelling storytelling and emotional depth, "A Friend of Dorothy" is poised to make a lasting impact on audiences and the film industry alike.
