Creative duo put bullying into spotlight

The vision of two young Dunfermline film-makers has been praised after their short film to help bullying victims won a national competition.

Ellie Willcocks, 17, and Annabelle Rand, 16, created the anti-bullying film Monster (Like Me) to encourage young people to embrace their uniqueness regardless of what others think.

The Woodmill School duo have tipped for stardom

High been after writing, starring and producing the short film, which was praised by Education Secretary Shirley-anne Somerville.

The film was chosen by anti-bullying charity Respectme as its under-18 secondary winner in a film-making competition in partnership with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland’s Junior Conservatoire of Film.

In a joint statement, Ellie and Annabelle said: “We are glad to be able to provide a sense of comfort and reassurance to those who feel isolated in their thoughts and feelings, longing to be understood.

“We know first-hand what it feels like to view yourself as a monster but we hope our film stands as a banner of hope that your insecurities don’t shine as bright as your own uniqueness.

“The things that make you different are the things that bring you closer to other kindred spirits. This is how we both found each other. We now hope to take this achievement in our stride and we continue our creative endeavours in film, theatre and television.”

Their film will be used to help pupils overcome bullying and promoting the charity’s #Whatmadeitbetter campaign and the girls will join a unique film-maker’s masterclass experience delivered by Scotland’s Conservatoire of Film programme starting in the 2022-23 term.

Sandy Mcintosh, head teacher of the Dunfermline secondary school, said he is “immensely proud” of Ellie and Annabelle’s “vision and creativity”.

He said: “As artists and film-makers they have amazing potential and I know they will go on achieve further success.”

Ms Somerville, who is also the area’s MSP, said: “Thank you to all the young people who took part in this fantastic opportunity. By sharing your experiences and making your voices heard, you can help make life better for other young people experiencing bullying.” to

TALENTED: Ellie Willcocks and Annabelle Rand won praise for their short film.