Jake (Kingston Vernes) might only be 14, but that’s old enough to be a man as far as his dad (Drew Powell) is concerned. The only problem is that Jake isn’t sure he’s ready to grow up – at least not in the way that his dad wants him to.

With the rise of social media, young people and men especially are falling into the trap of toxic masculinity. Ben Tricklebank explores this in his debut live-action film Champ which shares the story of a 14-year-old boy whose dad desperately wants him to be a man. 

Watch a Q&A with the cast and crew of this magical film, moderated by Oscar Nominee Vincent Lambe

Champ may only be 14 minutes but the pace of the film grips you from the start.

Champ may only be 14 minutes, but the pace of the film grips you from the start. The camerawork used throughout really helps carry the story as we follow Jake on his journey with his father who whilst trying to get closer to his son, only pushes him further away due to his toxic masculinity.  Tricklebank’s directing is masterful making this a sure bet for the 2022 Academy Awards.

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Tricklebank’s directing is masterful making this a sure best for the 2022 Academy Awards.

Judy Ibel, Just Celebrity Magazine Film Reporter