Spines: A Case Study in Working with Neurodiverse Talent and Crew

In 2022 we commissioned one of our funded teams to create a case study on their short film Spines, the story of a shy, neurodivergent boy who makes a new connection: ‘when book-loving Thomas meets sporty Agnes, he learns how to use his storytelling to bridge the gap between them, show empathy and forge a new friendship.’

Both the lead actor and the writer-director, Joe Inman, are neurodiverse and so this was a great opportunity for us to hear about their experiences in making a BFI-backed short, in the hope that other teams (and executives) can better understand how to make their projects accessible.

Spines is currently on the festival circuit, but you can find out more about the story, the team and the production process (and pick up some practical tips!) in the case study here:

Photo by Natasha Payce for Bear Behind You (left to right: Oscar Payce; Joseph Inman)

Spines: A Case Study in Working with Neurodiverse Talent and Crew

  • Guides & Resources for Filmmakers Read more
  • A Rough Guide to Animation Production Read more
  • A Short Guide to Music Licensing with PRSForMusic Read more
  • A Short Guide to Working With Music Supervisors and Composers Read more
  • A Talent Exec’s Guide to the Early Development Fund Read more
  • BFI guidance on bullying and harassment prevention for the screen industries Read more
  • BFI NETWORK South West Short Film Fund Roundtable: Meet the Producer Read more
  • BFI NETWORK South West: Short Film Fund Roundtable: Budgets 101 Read more
  • How To Make Your Film Shoot More Sustainable Read more
  • Intro to Immersive webinar Read more
  • New Voices x Bristol Old Vic Theatre School  Read more
  • Reflections: BFI NETWORK South West Animation Producer Lab 2024 Read more
  • Resource Directory Read more
  • Selling Your Idea: What Makes a Great Funding Application? Read more
  • Short Film Toolkit Read more
  • Spines: A Case Study in Working with Neurodiverse Talent and Crew Read more
  • Stories To Change The World Read more

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