NEARLY 50 years after working on his first film, a Redditch man has been accepted into the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA).
And it comes just as his latest work is about to hit the big screen – the Ridley Scott production of Before I Go To Sleep starring Colin Firth and Nicole Kidman.
Scenary designer John West, of Winyates Green, has worked on a string of hits – not only in film but also on TV and in the theatre. These range from productions of Hamlet at Redditch’s Palace Threatre through to hit TV series Broadchurch.
His role is key in the film-making process, linking the art director with those actually building the sets.
“Most films are shot in studios and our role is to translate the ideas of the art director into drawings for those building the set,” Mr West said.
“Our job is vital in telling the back story.
“On radio you can describe the setting but we need to create the right environment.
“By building the right set we can depict the correct period and the feel of the play, whether it is meant to be happy or bleak.”
After his early work on TV shows including the Black and White Minstrels, Mr West then worked in theatre and film while continuing his work on leading shows ranging from The Teletubbies and Doctors to Lewis and Broadchurch.
“It is a great honour to become a member of BAFTA,” he added.
“You have to be nominated.
“It is made up of 6,500 of the top people in film and TV with the aim of promoting the highest standards.”
