Written by Kate Radcliffe
Directed by Sophie King
Produced by 19th Street Productions
The cast is led by Ophelia Lovibond and Jacob Anderson , alongside Felicity Montagu , Jordan Alexandra , Alex Bhat , and Phoebe Pryce .
World Premiere at HollyShorts Film Festival, STILL LIFE highlights an issue that affects thousands of families each year while demonstrating how lived experience can inform contemporary storytelling. Through its combination of comedy and drama, the film seeks to encourage greater awareness of stillbirth, reduce the stigma surrounding pregnancy loss, and open conversations around grief, recovery, and the support available to bereaved parents.
Review: STILL LIFE
STILL LIFE is a deeply moving and thoughtfully crafted short film that approaches the devastating subject of stillbirth with remarkable honesty, compassion, and unexpected warmth. Written by Kate Radcliffe and directed by Sophie King, the film follows Jess and Max as they navigate the emotional aftermath of losing a child, capturing both the visible and invisible weight of grief with authenticity.
Drawing from Radcliffe's own lived experience, the screenplay avoids sentimentality in favor of raw, human storytelling, while King's sensitive direction balances heartbreak with moments of humor that feel genuine rather than forced. Ophelia Lovibond and Jacob Anderson deliver powerful, understated performances that anchor the film's emotional core.
Premiering at the HollyShorts Film Festival, STILL LIFE is more than a story about loss—it's a poignant exploration of resilience, healing, and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding stillbirth. It's a beautifully acted and emotionally resonant film that lingers long after the credits roll.
