A LOCAL film maker who is making a serious bid for an Oscar at the next Academy Awards has discovered that winning the coveted prize takes more than just talent.

It needs deep pockets and an international campaign just to give his short film, starring twice Oscar nominated actor John Hurt, a crack at the next Academy Awards.

Julian Unthank, aged 42, from Anna Valley, has already won several awards, including a Royal Television Society Best Short Film Award, for Love at First Sight, but he would also like an Oscar on his mantelpiece.

It means that the film, which also stars Phyllida Law, has to be shown around the world at Oscar-accredited film festivals just to be considered for the long-list. Set in a care home, the 12-minute film tells a story, both poignant and funny, about love in later life. Julian, who wrote the screenplay, said: “The film has done really well so far and I’m delighted to have won awards already – I just would really like an Oscar on my mantelpiece. “It is incredibly difficult even to get to the long list. It has cost a lot of time and money in entry fees already but it’ll be well worth it to be in with the chance of winning.”

Julian has had some previous experience of Hollywood. His first career was as an animal trainer for the movies, working on films such as Mission Impossible and Fierce Creatures.

Andover film fans have the chance to see the film on 5 September when it will be shown by the Andover Film Club at the launch of their new season at Reel Cinema. It is being shown in a double bill with the 1971 comedy classic Harold and Maude.

Julian will introduce his film and later host a question and answer session with the audience.

Julian’s film has recently won the Rushes Soho Short Film Festival Best Film Award and the Audience Award at the Aspen Film Festival, and in the next few weeks has more screenings coming up at the LA Short Film Fest, the TriMedia Festival in Colorado and the prestigious Raindance Film Festival. The deadline for Oscar nominations is 3 October.