The Pacifist recounts the dramatic true story of John Fulljames, a conscientious objector and undergraduate at Oxford during the Second World War.
It was filmed on location in University College, Oxford, where this story took place 80 years earlier. The narrative was researched and constructed with the invaluable help of Robin Darwall-Smith at the University College Archive.
The screenplay was written by Matthew Hardy, and the film was directed by Matthew Hardy and Jack Rennie. The Director of Photography was James Huthwaite. The soundtrack was composed and performed by Jack Rennie.
Matthew Hardy is a filmmaker from West London. He recently graduated from University College, Oxford, with a degree in English Language and Literature. His first film, a short documentary called Under the Shadow of Rhodes, featured David Olusoga OBE and won praise from writer and activist Owen Jones. This is his first short film.
Jack Rennie is a filmmaker and musician originally from Kent. He graduated from University College, Oxford, with a degree in Psychology and Linguistics. Jack currently works at a creative agency alongside his ongoing projects in film and music.
James Huthwaite is a cinematographer originally from Nottingham. He graduated from Ravensbourne University, London with a degree in Digital Film Production.
The Pacifist features:
Levi Mattey as John Fulljames
Levi Mattey is an actor from South West London. He is a member of The National Youth Theatre, Great Britain. Levi’s recent theatre credits include As You Like It, The Taming of The Shrew, and Ezra by Stella Green. He recently graduated from the University of Edinburgh, with a degree in English Literature and Philosophy.
Jerry Mutulu Woolley as Leslie Herniman
Jerry Mutulu Woolley is a creative from Islington, London. He has trained in the performing arts with IDENTITY, the Almeida Theatre, Maktub Theatre and Actors In Session. Jerry has featured in short films, television commercials and theatre productions. He is currently performing as a supernumerary in Small Island at the National Theatre. Beyond acting, Jerry spends his time as a spoken word and recording artist.
Chester Caine as John Yallop
Chester Caine is an actor who grew up in North West London. He trained at The Oxford School of Drama and graduated in 2019. Chester’s most recent performance was as Charlie in SMALL at Soho Theatre. He is also a songwriter and musician.
Martha West as Morgan LeFey
Martha West is a London-raised actor whose TV and film credits include the BBC and Amazon’s The Pursuit of Love and Hanway Films’ Creation. Martha trained with the National Youth Theatre and Young Royal Court. She is graduating this year with honours in English Literature from Balliol College, Oxford. This is her first short film.
