Reflecting on the MISSION’s origins,
​Jinx Prowse comments: 
​
“We started DVMISSION as a one off, just for a bit of fun. We wanted to challenge ourselves, to see if making a film in under 48 hours was even possible. It is a pleasant surprise that 20 years and 1000’s of filmmakers later, the MISSION is still running and the excitement is still palpable.”

City Eye's Head of Production, Aaron West, made his first steps into the industry with the challenge 11 years ago thanks to Rob Hind, his media teacher at St Vincent College and team captain of  Truth at 88MPH which claims to be the oldest DVM group, having entered a film every year since its inception. 

Aaron has also entered a number of times with City Eye, assisting participants from City Eye’s monthly Film Network and youth training activities, including alumni of the City Eye BFI Film Academy Short Course. 
​
​"DVMISSION is a great foundation for film training. Its pressure-cooker nature of a 48hr turn around forces quick thinking and sharpens your instincts. Plus, it's tremendous fun! In the space of a weekend you learn what it takes to be a writer, director, cinematographer, actor & editor, often taking on more than 1 role (or 3!) just to finish on time. There is no better way to hone your craft as a filmmaker." 

On Monday 15 September 2025, Southampton welcomed the Regional Premiere of A Night Like This – the debut feature from director and colleague Liam Calvert, with writer and producer Diego Scerrati.
​
The film follows two seemingly mismatched men who forge an unexpected bond over the course of a cold London night. Starring Alexander Lincoln, Jack Brett Anderson and David Bradley, A Night Like This will open in cinemas nationwide from 26 September.

Before its wider release, it was important to Liam that the film was celebrated here in Southampton. Several crew members are alumni of Solent University, and the project was supported locally by City Eye, which provided equipment and student runners through its training programmes, including the BFI Film Academy Short Course. City Eye’s Head of Production, Aaron West, contributed as B-Cam operator, while Haven Bear – a former City Eye trainee and the artist behind Southampton Film Week’s striking posters – designed the film’s artwork, promotional materials and credits.

Audiences gathered at Harbour Lights Picture House Cinema for the premiere, which concluded with a Q&A featuring Liam and Diego, chaired by City Eye director Susan Beckett. The discussion explored the realities of making an independent film on a limited budget, the power of creative collaboration, and the journey to casting the lead roles of Lukas and Oliver.

The conversation sparked lively audience engagement, with some curious about the characters’ futures and others eager to purchase the film on DVD.

Reviewer Joy McKay praised the film, writing: “This film engaged me, delighted me, made me cry. It is skilfully crafted from writer, director, lead actors, supporting cast and crew.” You can read Joy’s full review [here].

City Eye is immensely proud of Liam, Diego, and the entire team behind A Night Like This. We are excited to see the film reach audiences across the UK and to follow the future achievements of its talented cast and crew.

Watch the filmmaker Q&A on the City Eye YouTube Channel.

City Eye supported Liam and his film in early 2024, not only providing essential equipment but also creating industry pathways for emerging filmmakers. Three of our BFI Film Academy Short Course students and two members of City Eye’s 1825 Filmmakers Group gained invaluable hands-on experience on the production. Additionally, City Eye’s Head of Production, Aaron West, contributed as B-Cam operator.

City Eye’s Executive Director, Susan Beckett, also celebrated Liam’s achievement: "I couldn’t be more proud of Liam, Aaron and Ven - all members of our team and contributors to this project - not to mention our students and trainees who joined the production. The future of film feels bright today."

​A Night Like This features the work of Haven Bear ‘Ven’, a non-binary graphic designer and artist who collaborates with City Eye and Southampton Film Week. Ven, known for designing the festival’s striking posters, has also created promotional materials for the film, as well as titles & credits.