Derbyshire-based director Owen Tooth joins us to share his journey from making award-winning short films to becoming the first disabled director of EastEnders in its 40-year history.

A night for filmmakers to connect and learn from one of the region’s leading directorial voices in film and television.

Derbyshire-based director Owen Tooth joins us to share his journey from making award-winning short films to becoming the first disabled director of EastEnders in its 40-year history.

Owen’s shorts have screened at Oscar and BAFTA-qualifying festivals worldwide, earning multiple awards. His feature debut sold globally on VOD and Blu-Ray, and in 2025 his landmark EastEnders block – including the VE-Day special that trended across social media – drew widespread acclaim for its storytelling and emotional impact.

Most recently, Owen directed a short documentary through the Netflix Documentary Talent Fund, currently touring festivals, and was named a Broadcast Hot Shot ’25.

As a wheelchair user and an ally, he’s passionate about collaboration and creating a more inclusive industry.

Owen will be in conversation with PLATFORM Community Lead, Keith Allott, discussing directing for cinema, streamers, and broadcast television, how to sustain creative momentum, and what emerging directors can take from working across independent and mainstream production.

After the talk, join us in the Terrace Room for networking with fellow filmmakers and artists.