Phil Gwilliam’s screenplay has progressed to the later stages of the UK Film Festival’s 10 Minute Screenplay Competition, with the festival describing its contests as a route to industry recognition and, in some cases, production opportunities.
UKFF says 14 previous winning and finalist entries have gone on to be produced, optioned and screened at major film festivals, with some winning multiple awards.
The Last Tackle is a deeply personal story inspired by Phil’s late father and uncle, both former professional rugby league players. It is rooted firmly in the culture and spirit of St Helens.
Set against the backdrop of rugby league, it tells the story of a son and his ageing father, once a player, now living with cognitive decline as they return to an empty pitch for one final game together.
For Phil, from Blackbrook, the piece is as much about St Helens and the generation of men shaped by the sport as it is about family.
He said: “Rugby league runs through my family and through so many families round here. It’s about pride, toughness, humour, love, and not always saying what you feel.
“That’s really what the script is about. It’s a tribute to my dad, my uncle, their teammates and the world they all came from.”
Although it is the first screenplay he has written, The Last Tackle has already made an impression by reaching the quarter-final stage of the competition.
Phil is now hoping to take the project further and bring the film to the screen.
He added: “I wanted to write something honest about fathers, sons and rugby league, especially in a town like St Helens, where the game means so much to so many people.
“To have it recognised in this way, especially as my first screenplay, means a great deal.”
With judging still ongoing, The Last Tackle remains in contention as the competition moves into its later stages.