ANIMOL

Writer
Nick Love

Director
Ashley Walters

Cast
Tut Nyuot
Vladyslav Baliuk
Stephen Graham
Sharon Duncan-Brewster
Sekou Diaby

Executive Producers
David Kimbangi
Ollie Madden
Julia Stuart
Laura Grange
Sabrina Parmar
Louise Ortega
Nagajan Modhwadia

Producers
Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor
Thomas Hawkins
Nick Love
Ashley Walters

Co-Producer
Savannah Power

Associate Producer
Khadija Khan

Production Companies
Joi Productions, Rogue State, SLNda

Commissioning Partners
BFI, Film4, Sky Cinema

Synopsis

Inside a British young offender institution, Troy (Tut Nyuot) is plunged into a world governed by gangs, shifting loyalties and the threat of violence. Tested from the moment he arrives, he’s paired with a menacing cellmate and drawn into the prison’s brutal hierarchy, where even small alliances can carry consequences. An increasingly close bond with another inmate offers welcome refuge but also exposes Troy to new danger. As welfare officer Claypole (Graham, Adolescence) tries to help Troy with his estranged mother, the young man is pushed towards impossible choices in a place where trust is fragile and survival comes at a cost. Taut, stylish and empathetic, Animol rises above the prison drama crowd.

Reviews

★★★★ Time Out — “This brilliant British film cares deeply about making us care for these characters.”

★★★★ Radio Times — “An impressive, confident debut from Walters.”

★★★½ Loud and Clear Reviews — “A strong debut from Ashley Walters.”

★★★ The Guardian — “Empathy, and strong performances.”

Awards & Festivals

Berlin International Film Festival 2026 | Perspectives, Official Selection / World Premiere

Berlin International Film Festival 2026 | FIPRESCI Prize, Winner — Best Film, Perspectives

BFI London Film Festival 2026 | First Feature Competition, Sutherland Award Nominee

Sydney Film Festival 2026 | Official Selection / Australian Premiere