Hollywood, here I come!

Colchester Sixth Form College student Ben Wilkinson will be mentored by film legends like George Lucas and Steven Spielberg at South California University’s school of cinematic arts.

Ben, 18, earnt one of just 24 places on the four-year film production course.

Ben first fell in love with film when he was four and saw Titanic.

He said: “I sat and watched the whole three hours even though I was only four. I thought I wanted to be an actor, but then I got interested in film scores and I appreciated the work of James Horner.”

He applied to go the Royal College of Music, but realised during the interview that music wasn’t his calling. He spent four months on his application, which included ten essays, a portfolio of work, visual and script samples and sitting tests.

His hard work paid off and Ben was the only Briton to be offered a place at the the highest-ranking film school in the world.

Moving to Los Angeles will be a major upheaval for the former North Primary and Gilberd School pupil who has lived in Margaret Road, Colchester, all his life.

He said: “I have never been to America before. In fact, I have only flown once, to Ireland. I am excited and nervous, too.”

Ben has started work on his first feature film, Daisy, about two siblings coping with the death of their mother.

He has written the script and recruited friends from the Youth Actors Company to play the parts.

He is also filming and editing the film, which will be about an hour long. Ben said: “I have always appreciated the work of films. There is an escapism and a moral standard and you can learn lessons for life. I hope to make quality, character-driven films. I know this is a life-changing opportunity.”

l A variety show is being held to help Ben fund his course. The event is at the Headgate Theatre, in Colchester, on July 10 and 11 and will feature comedy sketches, dancing and singing. Clips of Ben’s film Daisy will also be shown.

To book tickets, call 01206 366000.

See Ben’s work at thefilmschool fund.com