Edinburgh teenagers win Best Film at star-studded award ceremony as ex-Doctor Who star Peter Capaldi presents trophy
The winning film, titled ‘What’s In A Bowl’, was created by a group of Edinburgh teenagers aged between 16 and 19.
A group of young filmmakers from Edinburgh won a prestigious award at a star-studded ceremony held by education charity Into Film.
Alice Chen, Macy Brown, Leo Wilson, Ruri Quoiani, Oscar Ashfari, and Jai Davis were presented with the award for Best Film in the 16 to 19 age category at the ceremony in London’s Leicester Square on Tuesday evening (June 16) for their film ‘What’s In A Bowl?’.
The film follows a Chinese immigrant in Edinburgh who goes on a journey to discover and celebrate their culture after losing a feeling of belonging.
Members of the young filmmaking team made their way to London’s glitzy ceremony to receive the award from Scottish acting legend Peter Capaldi.
Alice Chen, writer and co-filmmaker of ‘What’s In A Bowl?’, said:“I’d like to begin by saying what an incredible honour this is to receive this award. Thank you so much Into Film.
“This film is very close to my heart and telling this story is important to me because it reflects growing up having immigrated from another country and what identity means to those who live in different and often conflicting cultures. This film explores experiences and emotions that deserve to be seen, heard and shared because it lets people know that no matter who you are and where you are, belonging comes from within.”
The production of the group’s film was supported by Screen Education Edinburgh and BFI Academy.
The 17-year-old added: “I want to thank everyone at Screen Education Edinburgh who believed in this project and supported myself and the teammates along the way. I also want to thank BFI for funding these academies and giving young people a voice and the opportunity to learn and thrive in the creative industry.
“Filmmaking is also never a solo effort, and I'm incredibly grateful to the cast and crew and everyone who gave up their time and energy to bring this story to life.
“Receiving this award is a wonderful reminder of why we tell stories in the first place, to connect with one another, to inspire conversation and to help us better understand ourselves and each other. Thank you so much. This means more to me than I can ever express.”
The Into Film Awards 2026 was hosted by presenter Konnie Huq and celebrity guests included Harry Potter star Jason Isaacs, Marvel actress Hayley Atwell and another Doctor Who star, Jodie Whittaker. Other attendees included Bella Ramsey, Nick Frost, Blake Harrison and David Jonsson among many others.
Into Film is a charity which helps to get young people into the filmmaking industry, providing training, advice and resources.
Fiona Evans, chief executive of the charity, said: “Today’s Into Film Awards is the UK’s most prestigious showcase for young filmmakers, backed by leaders from across the industry.
“Each year we receive hundreds of brilliant entries and for every young filmmaker walking the red carpet today, the Awards will be a life-changing experience.”
She added: “The incredible young people and educators recognised at this year's Awards show what can be achieved when schools, creative industries, charities and government all work together to give children the opportunity to express themselves.”