‘For me, the vision is about helping build something more connected – where filmmakers, actors, crew and artists collaborate regularly and support each other’s projects. The more that happens, the more the city becomes somewhere you can actually sustain a career, not just start one.’ 

 – Joe Shepherd (BA Film Studies, 2021), Producer 

It may be the end of the world but it’s a promising start for a group of University of Hull alumni.  

Final Pill, the debut feature film from writer and director Caylem Scott and producer Joe Shepherd will premiere in the city in May. Filmed and set within a Hull flat the apocalyptic horror story was made with a crew of over a dozen former Hull students. 

As the world is facing nuclear annihilation, the couple at its heart are having a bad day. A thoughtful government has provided a kit containing pills for those who might not wish to be around at the end. The couple discover their kit contains a single pill. 

Caylem Scott (BA Media Production, 2025) said: “It’s about relationships – how resentment and underlying issues can slowly bubble into something toxic. There’s a little reality injected into the unhinged world of Final Pill.” 

Relationships offscreen have been more successful. Caylem teamed up with Joe (BA Film Studies, 2021) and together recruited alumni from multiple disciplines to make the film. 

Joe said: “‘Hull has a really strong creative community. Being part of that network gave us access to some amazing contacts.  It felt right to build the project around people we knew were talented, committed and part of a creative community.” 

Joe’s production company Shepherd Creative is not only behind Final Pill, but has been building a portfolio of movies in Hull and North Lincolnshire, where he is based. 

For both Caylem and Joe, the University of Hull provided a great platform from which to launch their careers. Joe said: “What made the biggest difference for me were the practical sessions. That kind of hands-on experience stays with you. Access to equipment and the chance to actually produce work were massive as well.” 

Even with experience and a pool of talent on tap the challenges of independent filmmaking remain. Caylem said: ‘It’s always a struggle. We shot Final Pill on a tiny budget; it’s a constant battle.  

“It sounds kind of cliché but just make the film. Network, save a little money, create something that has some sort of a market. Most of all, plan everything.” 

Joe said; “On a small budget film every decision matters. You’re constantly balancing creative ambition against what’s realistically achievable. It forces you to be resourceful 

“Start with what you have and build from there. Focus on strong ideas, plan carefully, and surround yourself with people who are committed. The city has great locations and a supportive creative network, the key is actually using them. 

“For me, the vision is about helping build something more connected – where filmmakers, actors, crew and artists collaborate regularly and support each other’s projects. The more that happens, the more the city becomes somewhere you can actually sustain a career, not just start one.” 

Final Pill premieres at Hull Truck on Friday 8^th May: https://www.hulltruck.co.uk/whats-on/films-screenings/final-pill-18plus/