Lowkey Films Debut Narrative Feature ‘Kindling' Returns to BBC iPlayer

Mia McKenna-Bruce’s talents are receiving well-deserved recognition following the release of 'Seven Dials' on Netflix last week, igniting renewed interest in her previous films. 'Kindling', the directorial debut of Lowkey’s founder and head of creative Connor O’Hara, aired on BBC Three, offering audiences a chance to revisit one of her earliest performances.

As the buzz continues to build around Netflix’s Agatha Christie series, there has been a growing momentum surrounding Mia's body of work. Her powerful performance in 'Kindling', produced by Lowkey Films, came ahead of her starring turn in Molly Manning Walker’s 'How to Have Sex'.

In 'Kindling', Mia stars as Lily - the romantic interest of Sid, a young man living with terminal testicular cancer, played by fellow British newcomer George Somner. The coming of age drama follows Sid as he grapples with the realities of his illness during a formative period in his life. The film was supported by both Teenage Cancer Trust and Movember throughout its UK release.

Director of 'Kindling' Connor O’Hara said, “From the first second Mia entered for her audition I just knew she was someone I wanted to work with. She sat on the floor, rather than in the chair and played around with lines - instantly making them her own. In Kindling I encouraged a sense of improvisation and Mia brought life into the character way beyond my expectations.”

This renewed interest in 'Kindling' highlights the importance of casting in British independent film especially when it comes to recognising emerging talent. By placing trust in actors like Mia, George Somner and BAFTA Nominee Conrad Khan, the British indie has benefitted not only from their incredible performances, but from continued visibility as their careers continue to develop and grow.

The independent British film was first acquired by the BBC in July 2023 following its theatrical release earlier that year. 'Kindling' is once again available to stream on BBC iPlayer, with the broadcaster having reacquired the rights to Connor’s feature debut.

​Jamie Gamache, co-founder of Lowkey Films and producer of 'Kindling' added, “It’s so important that independent films have a platform for audiences to discover them, particularly in the case of 'Kindling' where our cast continues to grow and people find the film because of that. In the UK, there is no platform that’s more prestigious for drama than the BBC so it’s an honour to have Kindling back with them.”

'Kindling' is available to stream now on BBC iPlayer.