Manchester Animation Festival

24 & 45

In a fractured future of inequality, two individuals (24 and 45), challenge a system of control and illusion, exposing how a society built on competition leads to conflict and violence 24 & 45 is a bold, mature animated feature that explores contemporary issues of power, corruption, inequality, and the normalisation of violence. Set within a dystopian future, the film reflects concerns that are increasingly relevant today, questioning who benefits from conflict, how narratives are manipulated by those in power, and the human cost of systems that prioritise profit and control over compassion.

Producer Vicki Rock

Vicki is a producer and Co-Director of Enter Yes Ltd, based in Belfast. She produces original film projects alongside international co-productions, with a focus on distinctive, character-driven stories and emerging creative talent. Having worked across independent film and high-end television, with clients such as Netflix, BBC, Sony, Warner Bros., Vicki has extensive experience managing VFX and Animation productions from development through to delivery.   She has also produced award-winning short animation films that have gone on to win IFTA awards and longlisted for the BAFTAs and Oscars and continues to develop a slate of original projects.  She has taken part in ACE animation Special workshop 2026 and EAVE on Demand workshop 2026 with 2 different projects.  She is currently in development with a slate of 1 short and 2 features as lead producer and 2 features as co-producer in the UK, Ireland and Bulgaria.

Writer/Director Kris Kelly

Belfast-based artist, writer and director Kris Kelly works across mixed-media animation, visual effects and live-action film to create an emotionally rich visual language. Kris’ writing and directing debut animated short , Here to Fall, was nominated for a BAFTA in 2013. In 2024, his animated short film A Wind and the Shadow won an IFTA and was longlisted for both the Academy Awards and the BAFTAs. He also runs Enter Yes, a boutique creative studio in Belfast where his distinctive visual style has featured in numerous BAFTA, Grierson, IFTA and Emmy Award-winning productions. As a director, Kris has collaborated with major institutions including the BFI, BBC and HBO Europe.  He has participated in EAVE on Demand and Stowe Story Labs, and his screenplay 24 & 45 was selected for the ACE Animation Special at the Dingle Animation Festival.