Congratulations to Molly Wright for Most Promising Newcomer and Best Supporting Actress Nomination. Apostasy has also received nominations for Best Debut Screenwriter, Debut Director and Breakthrough Producer.

Starring Siobhan Finneran, Robert Ems and Sacha Parkinson. Raised in the Jehovah Witness 'The Truth', sisters Alex and Luisa are devoted to each other and to their faith. Their mission is to convert the large Pakistani community of Oldham before Armageddon.

But when Luisa (played by Sacha Parkinson) is found guilty of fornication, Alex and her mother, Ivanna (played by Siobhan Finneran), are forced to ostracise her as punishment for her sin.

As the story develops, it becomes clear that it is Ivanna who must restore God's blessing and secure the spiritual future of her family. Her faith is truly tested when she is forced to choose between her daughters.

Written and directed by a former Jehovah's Witness, this film gives a true insight into a fundamentalist religion that seeks conformity in its devotees. Told through a collection of deeply personal prayers and charged set pieces, Apostasy examines religious identity and the paradox of being in, but not part of, this world. Apostasy is a feature for BBC Films and BFI.

Reviews

The Guardian - Daniel Kokotajlo's debut about life among a religious community in Oldham is authentic, sensitive and subtle but has a sledgehammer narrative punch.
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2017/oct/09/apostasy-review-daniel-kokotajlo-jehovahs-witnesses

BFI - 'Apostasy' is a remarkable and authentic debut film, providing rare insight into the complex nature of faith, family, duty and love.
http://film.britishcouncil.org/apostasy

BFI - Daniel Kokotajlo, writer-director Apostasy, wins 50k IWC Schaffhausen Filmmaker Bursary.
http://www.bfi.org.uk/news-opinion/news-bfi/announcements/daniel-kokotajlo-apostasy-iwc