Roehampton Senior Lecturer Premieres New Film at Curzon Mayfair

• Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Josh Appignanesi, Programme Convenor and Senior Lecturer of BA Film Production, is set to debut his latest feature film, "My Extinction," at the renowned Curzon Mayfair theatre on Thursday, 29 June.  

The film follows the journey of a self-absorbed and ineffective father who becomes increasingly concerned about environmental issues and ultimately becomes deeply involved in climate activism. Distributed by Dartmouth Films, the film hits UK cinemas on Friday, 30 June and will offer viewers a thought-provoking and intimate exploration of climate activism. 

Appignanesi, known for his previous successful works such as "The Infidel," "The New Man," and "Husband," takes a personal approach in his latest creation by turning the camera on himself. Initially, he makes excuses for his limited involvement in the climate movement, dismissing group efforts and questioning the impact of individual actions. However, as the narrative progresses, his growing anxiety about the future his children will inherit pushes him towards meaningful climate activism. 

Appignanesi shared his motivations behind creating the film stating, "Trying to think directly about the climate emergency, what that level of global threat really feels like and how obdurate it looks, can be pretty crushing and overwhelming. You just end up paralysed or pushing it aside and doing nothing. 

“I wanted to make a film telling the intimate truth about our denials and limitations, and what it might look like to step beyond them a little bit, by admitting them to others and end up doing something useful through that community of feeling. Oh, and there are jokes." 

The film offers a fresh and accessible perspective on engaging with climate action. "My Extinction" demonstrates that involvement in climate work can be a creative, enjoyable, and personally enriching endeavour.  

Appignanesi's latest work serves as the final instalment in his autobiographical trilogy, providing valuable insights on how individuals can embrace their emotions, leverage their privilege, and take meaningful action in the face of existential threats. 

For updates and more information, follow "My Extinction" on Twitter (@MyExtinctionFlm) and Instagram (@myextinctionflm).