Arts / ‘This story stays with you’ – Billy and Molly scoops another three awards
A FILM described as an “otter love story” set in Shetland has continued its awards success with another three wins at a ceremony on Monday night.
Billy and Molly, focusing on Billy Mail and wife Susan’s close encounters with otter Molly, scooped another three prizes at the Royal Television Society’s Craft and Design Awards.
The documentary was one of the big winners on the night, with director Charlie Hamilton James collecting the gong for best director in a non-scripted feature.
Judges described it as a “beautiful and emotive film”, and a story that was “simple yet powerful”.
“It was clear to see the dedication and care that had gone into making this film – with the director moving to live on location with the couple,” they said.
“There is so much more to it than just beautiful pictures, this story captures your attention and heart and stays with you.”
Billy and Molly also took home awards for the best sound and photography in a non-scripted feature, with the judges describing the sound design as “magical”.
They also said the film “not only captured the beautiful landscapes of the Shetland Islands but also created an emotional connection for the viewer with the beautiful depiction of relationships”.
Produced by Silverback Films for National Geographic, Billy and Molly tells the heart-warming story of how a malnourished otter became part of Billy and Susan Mail’s family on the West Mainland.
The film, released internationally by National Geographic and Disney, became a massive festival success, winning three prizes at the 2024 Wildscreen Panda Awards – including best production.
It has since won two Emmy awards, for outstanding writing and outstanding promotional announcement, and scooped the science and natural world prize at the Royal Television Society awards in March.
Billy and Molly was also nominated for a BAFTA award.
‘We never expected it’ – how an otter turned one couple into film stars
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