Actress wins Best Director at New York City film festival
The Case of Katelyn Burns Actress Toyah Frantzen has taken home the coveted Best Director award at the Flight Deck Film Festival, an online film competition based out of New York City.
Written, produced, and directed by Toyah, the award-winning short film The Case of Katelyn Burns, who grew up in Peckham, is now in the final stages of the film festival circuit.
With eight official selections, it has garnered praise across the board.
Toyah said: “I’m delighted that The Case of Katelyn Burns has been so well received both here in the UK and abroad.
“I’ve always been fascinated with the mechanics of film-making. Seeing my first directing project come together has been a truly rewarding experience.”
The Case of Katelyn Burns follows a troubled young woman and her relationship with her dysfunctional family.
Katelyn is willing to put it all on the line to protect her timid mother and sister from her manipulative stepfather.
The riveting tale touches on many relevant social issues, exploring feminism and domestic violence in contemporary society.
She said: “I had a clear vision for this story. I wanted to capture the complexities of family, of loyalty, abuse, and betrayal.”
The Case of Katelyn Burns Best Director accolade is not Toyah’s first time in the limelight.
The actress recently starred in In Another Life, which took the top spot at the Raindance Film Festival and the Discovery Award at BIFA 2017.
The film is now available on Amazon Prime.
Toyah was also nominated for Best Actress at the 2018 Underwire Film Festival for her role in Reflection, directed by Oscar-winner Mark Sanger.
Toyah also had success with several ITV and BBC shows, including Doctors, The Bill, and Wire In The Blood.
She said: “I’m lucky to have an incredible agent, but I’m also a proactive actor that takes responsibility for my career.
“My experience as a businesswoman has helped me navigate the industry, network, and capitalise on opportunities. Film production just feels natural to me.”
After more than 15 years in media advertising and sales management, Toyah has pursued her acting career and started her own business, Roleplay Solutions.
The UK-based agency connects quality actors to organisations for staff and student development and training.
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