James - Short Film. (360G-Wellcome-101350_Z_13_Z)

A short drama film about the first vaccination by Edward Jenner in 1796, seen through the eyes of James Phipps - the eight year old son of a farm labourer upon whom Jenner carried out the experiment. Participants in clinical trials are the unsung heroes of medicine. As well as celebrating Jenner as the pioneer of immunisation, the film pays tribute to James and introduces themes relating to the importance and ethics of clinical trials. An experienced team of critically acclaimed filmmake rs will produce a beautiful, engaging and informative film that will play at UK and international festivals and give a fresh perspective to one of the most important episodes in the history of medicine. It will also feature as a permanent exhibit and key teaching aid in the Jenner Museum in Gloucestershire, which receives over 5000 visitors each year and an additional 1000 children through school visits and outreach. Furthermore, it will be made freely accessible on the museum's popular webs ite, and through links on other relevant websites. Teachers have expressed excitement about a film that will engage children by depicting events through the eyes of someone their own age. Jenner is the only scientist to feature in the primary school National Curriculum. By creating a strong web presence we intend the film to become an established teaching aid, reaching hundreds of thousands of primary school children. The project provides excellent value: online distribution incurs zero co st, and any additional costs for screenings/outreach can be met through collaboration and sponsorship.