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Hometown Horror Hits the Big Time: Andover’s ‘Backmask’ Slays at Film Awards

Andover creatives made a significant mark at this year’s British Horror Film Festival, held at the British Museum in London.

Among the awardees was Backmask, a chilling short horror film set in Penton Park House, Andover. Directed and written by Andover locals Chris Baker and Matt Fitch, Back Mask emerged as a standout, taking home four coveted awards, including Best Short Film and the prestigious Doug Milsome Award for Best Cinematography.

The British Horror Film Festival, celebrating its 15th year, showcases a horrifyingly impressive array of films and recognises excellence in various categories. With a focus on supporting independent filmmaking, the festival offers awards such as the British Horror Award for Achievement in Film on a Low Budget and the Rising Star Award to foster emerging talent.

The Backmask team took Andover pride to new heights, with actor Charlie Rix receiving the Best Supporting Actor award for his standout role in the film. Set against the haunting backdrop of a 1970s mansion, Backmask follows the story of rock star Billy Chapman, whose quest for a unique sound leads him into isolation and a sinister pact with a malevolent force. This chilling premise, coupled with stunning visuals and gripping performances, captivated the festival judges.

Another local creative, musician Marc Burford, received acclaim for his work, winning the Best Music award for his composition of Sarah’s Song. The haunting score added depth and atmosphere to the film’s chilling storyline, underscoring the dark tones of Billy Chapman’s descent.

Reflecting on his win, Burford shared, “It’s an honour to have my work recognised at such a prestigious festival. Composing Sarah’s Song was a deeply rewarding process, and I’m thrilled it resonated with audiences. The Andover creative community is full of incredible talent, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

With their achievements, Andover’s talented artists continue to establish the town as a rising source of creative talent in the UK film industry.

Ben Tuffin