Everything you need to know about Animol
Top Boy and Missing You star Ashley Walters is stepping into the director’s chair for the first time ever in seering new drama, Animol.
Written by Nick Love (The Football Factory, A Town Called Malice), Walters drew on his own experience for the creation of the film.
A project six years in the making, Animol brings to the screen life inside a Young Offenders’ Institute, and how it molds the young minds that go there.
Here’s everything you need to know about the movie…
What is Animol about?
Animol is a searing portrayal of life within the confines of a Young Offenders’ Institution.
As two teenagers try to navigate the complicated world of the harsh prison system, a Welfare Officer is tasked with keeping an eye on them during their time there.
This raw and poignant coming-of-age story highlights the power of humanity in the midst of adversity.
In a comment on Animol’s inception, director Ashley Walters has said: “Nick and I have worked together before and always wanted to create something bold—something that sparks conversation while delivering visual beauty.
“Animol is deeply personal to me. It explores the struggle of being your authentic self in a world that often pressures you to conform—one of life’s greatest challenges.
“At its heart, this is a story about survival and the safety found in true connection. It’s not about the ‘what’; it’s about the ‘why.’ I couldn’t be more excited to bring my debut feature to life with such an incredible team.”
Animol was developed by Film4 in collaboration with Joi Productions. Sky is collaborating with Film4 for the first time as co-financiers on the project, with the BFI (awarding National Lottery funding) also financing. Bankside Films are handling international sales for the film.
The film is also working with the Synergy Theatre Project and Intermission Youth Theatre, to give opportunities as supporting artists to those considered of potential risk of entering the criminal justice system themselves.
Who is in the cast of Animol and where have we seen them before?
The announced cast of Animol includes:
Newcomer Tut Nyuot
Newcomer Vladyslav Baliuk
Stephen Graham (Help, Boiling Point, The Virtues)
Sharon Duncan-Brewster (Dune: Part One, Enola Holmes 2)
Where and when can I watch Animol?
Animol is just heading into production, and as a result a release date has not been confirmed.
Check back in here for more details as they’re announced.
It will also be available to stream on NOW.