Shorts and documentaries that tell bold, human stories

Boredom Boy Productions has been commissioned to produce a film about youth unemployment.

Young people aged between 16 and 24, who are not in education, employment or training, are referred to as NEETs. The Office for National Statistics has reported that the number of NEETs who are unemployed has topped 1 million in recent months.

This means that many young people are not getting the opportunity to gain the skills that will aid them in the workforce through their lifetime.

James Ballard, co-founder and managing partner of Annapurna Recruitment, a London-based firm, commissioned Boredom Boy Productions (BBP) after purchasing a screenplay about one such NEET, a young woman called Asha. The screenplay had been written by a film director/producer who was unable to continue with the project.

Wishing to create a film that will both spark political debate and inform organisations about the plight of NEETs, James asked Jeff Turner, CEO of BBP, if he would review the script.

After reading the initial script, Jeff spent some time reworking elements to James' satisfaction. James and Jeff then set about gathering actors who would bring the film to life. Using some of the actors from the first project, a team was brought together that all had first-hand experience of what it is like to be unemployed.

James also secured sponsorship from Royal Mail, a contribution that has made a huge difference and allowed us to make this film. Royal Mail also generously offered access to a parcel depot, adding further authenticity to the story.

This support has given Boredom Boy Productions far more flexibility than is common in a low-budget, independent film.

To see more details about the film and gain more insight into the issues raised by NEET unemployment, please visit the film website.

The film is being shot in late September and should be released towards the end of 2026.