Mr Fletcher said the film ‘Albert’ was pitched to the arts body as “the most ambitious short film Guernsey has seen”, but noted filming locally would bring several challenges. 

“As well as the industry standard equipment and crew we are bringing over, it will require the collaboration of several local organisations, talent, hobbyists and investors who are interested in continuing to raise the bar for filmmaking on the island,” he said. 

The project has been in development for four years and has now secured a grant, with Guernsey Arts saying it is “delighted to support the film project. Bringing Guernsey folklore to the screen, through the talents of Josh and his crew of international and homegrown talent”. 

Pre-production has commenced with more financial partners, volunteers, cast and crew being sought.  

But some familiar stalwarts are already onboard, including actor Cameron Ashplant, production designer Alex Bates, as well as UK-based director of photography Andrew Butler, and costume designer Elizabeth Butterick who between them have worked for ITV and the BBC.  

The film comes after Joshua’s two previous shorts ‘Plant Life’ and ‘Encounter’ screened at The Guernsey Film Fest 2022 and 2023. ‘Plant Life’ won the festival’s Audience Award in 2022 and ‘Encounter’ was the Best Film winner for Brighton during the city’s 48 Hour Film Project competition in 2023. The film went on to screen in Lisbon in March 2024 at Filmapalooza festival alongside over 100 films from around the world.