A Young Somerset Filmmaker has short film commissioned by Somerset Film & Watershed

We are excited to announce that Glastonbury-based filmmaker Melissa McCusker has been selected for the 2025 Short Film Commission, offered by Somerset Film in partnership with Watershed Bristol, and supported by the BFI Film Academy South West.

Melissa’s original script, titled ‘False Premises’, stood out among strong competition and is now entering pre-production, with the completed short film set to premiere in December 2025.

As part of the commission, Melissa receives a £500 production budget, mentoring from an experienced filmmaker, and access to professional filmmaking equipment provided by Somerset Film. Her finished film will be premiered at The Engine Room in Bridgwater, Somerset Film’s community media centre.

Previous recipients of the Short Film Commission include Toby Lee, Ralph Hutchins, Jasmine Otley and James Gardner.

Melissa attended the Somerset Film 2024 BFI Film Academy short course. This opportunity marks an exciting milestone for Melissa, who is fast emerging as a distinctive new voice in the region’s filmmaking scene.