Pro Moviemaker July/August 2026 - Web

Filmmaker of the Year | awards

Documentary Compelling true stories

The documentary class is always one of the most popular, which makes it incredibly tough to win. This year we had many great entries, but the winner was from Ellie Green with her mini documentary Tahira – an intimate portrait of a woman reclaiming her life through movement. Told through a reflective letter written to her younger self, the film traces Tahira’s journey from a time when fear shaped her world to a present defined by strength, community and freedom. “Quiet moments reveal long nights spent watching the world through a rain-streaked window, and the silent resilience required to survive abuse,” says Green, who won last year’s open category. “Everything begins to change when she is encouraged to step outside and walk in the hills of Yorkshire. What starts as a small act of courage grows into something transformative.” Through trail running and the support of the Due North community, Tahira discovers confidence, belonging and a way to process the trauma she once carried alone. Today, she helps others find that same sense of possibility. “It’s a story of courage, breaking expectations and learning not to run away from fear, but towards freedom,” explains Green. With some stunning vistas, intimate close-up portraits and well-crafted words from Tahira, it’s a wonderful piece and a worthy winner.

The film traces Tahira’s journey to a present defined by strength, community and freedom

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