Young Students at Manchester Youth Films School working on set to create their short film ‘A Blades Shadow’

On his 12th birthday, Jayden is overjoyed to receive a new bike—but that joy turns to despair when a local teen, Kane, steals it. After failed attempts to get it back, Jayden feels powerless and starts carrying a knife for protection.

As threats escalate, Jayden is pushed to the edge. In one version, he finds the strength to walk away. In another, one reckless moment ends in tragedy.

Stage 1 student created their first short film

13-year-old Emily as she talks with Sophie—a kind, comforting memory from her past. In a bright, welcoming room, Emily reflects on fun days and challenges, learning to turn mistakes into lessons. Their heartfelt dialogue helps her discover hope, forgiveness, and the strength to move forward with a smile.

The students used a green screen to create their own news reports and gained experience working with Adobe After Effects.

A person wakes up in a completely blank room with no memory of how they got there. Every time they try to escape or figure out what's happening, they are sent back to the starting point, waking up in the same position. They begin to notice subtle changes in the room with each loop—an object appears, a wall changes color—clues to why they're trapped. The tension builds as they race against time to break the loop.