"David Jonsson Discusses Supporting Emerging Filmmakers through BAFTA: 'It's Rare for Them to Secure a Place at the Table Due to Limited Availability'"
British Actor David Jonsson Wins BAFTA's EE Rising Star Award and Leads New Initiative for Emerging Talent
David Jonsson, a rising star in the British film industry, has been awarded the prestigious BAFTA's EE Rising Star Award in 2025. This recognition comes as Jonsson embarks on an exciting new venture, mentoring a group of 16 talented teenagers as they produce a short film titled "Setting Sail."
The teens, who are currently attending a seven-day immersive program, will work closely with Jonsson and his fellow mentor, Daisy Edgar-Jones. The pair have led Q&As and on-set workshops to guide the young creatives in their filmmaking journey.
"Setting Sail" follows the story of Hannah, a main character, and her younger self, Peanut, as they embark on a nostalgic treasure hunt. The movie explores the theme of growing up as a teenager in Britain today, rekindling memories of Hannah's late grandfather. The cast includes Carol Ball.
Jonsson, who is beaming with pride, shared his thoughts on the initiative with THR. He explained that his work with aspiring creatives is motivated by advice from his mother. "She always told me, 'Don't wait to be told. Go and do it,'" he said.
The "Setting Sail" project is part of Jonsson's mission with Set the Stage, an initiative he has teamed up with BAFTA and EE. The goal of Set the Stage is to find opportunities for new voices in the film industry and to encourage emerging talent to push the boundaries.
Jonsson's newly-founded production outfit with producing partner Sophia Gibber, greyarea, shares the same vision. The company focuses on finding and nurturing new talent to create unique and compelling stories.
The movie "Setting Sail" will premiere in early 2026 and be made available to watch on EE's YouTube channel. Jonsson still can't quite believe he's a BAFTA Award winner, but this new venture is a testament to his dedication to supporting the next generation of filmmakers.
