JUDGES
Our judging panel brings together an exciting mix of acclaimed filmmakers, industry creatives and respected voices from across film and television. Each judge has been selected for their experience, creativity and passion for championing emerging talent. From award winning directors and producers to leading actors and industry professionals, the panel reflects the collaborative spirit of the 2Day Film Challenge and the incredible opportunities the competition aims to create for new filmmakers.
Mike Leigh is one of British cinema’s most influential filmmakers, and one who has had a global impact with his work. Six of his films have been Oscar nominated and his work has competed at Berlin, Venice and Cannes. He won the Palme d’Or for Secrets and Lies; and the Cannes Best Director prize for Naked. He is currently completing his latest film which is due to premiere later this year. Mike Leigh is a former student, teacher and long-serving chairman of LFS.
MIKE LEIGH
BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH
Academy Award nominee Benedict Cumberbatch has established himself as one of the most versatile actors of his generation with an array of emotionally searing and complex roles defining his body of work. Cumberbatch was nominated for an Academy Award, BAFTA, SAG, Critics Choice and Golden Globe for his work in Jane Campion’s Academy Award winning film THE POWER OF THE DOG. Cumberbatch also received Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA and SAG Award nominations for his portrayal of ‘Alan Turing’ in Morten Tyldum’s THE IMITATION GAME.
Col Needham is Founder & Executive Chair of IMDb, the world’s most popular and authoritative source for information on movies, TV shows, and celebrities. Col provides strategic guidance, consults on key initiatives, and serves as a global ambassador for IMDb. Col founded IMDb in 1990 and served as CEO for 35 years, during which he built IMDb into the world’s leading source of entertainment information. IMDb is an Amazon company.
COL NEEDHAM
Olivier Award winning actress Indira Varma has built an acclaimed career across film, television and theatre. She is best known for her roles in Game of Thrones, The Night Manager, The Capture, Luther and Mission: Impossible. She can currently be seen in the acclaimed production of Glengarry Glen Ross at The Old Vic. One of Britain's most versatile performers, Varma brings decades of experience across screen and stage.
INDIRA VARMA
