UWTSD graduate works on Netflix's 'Havoc' and indie horror feature
Katrina Seaton, a graduate of a Film, Media and Animation programme at UWTSD has taken her first steps into the film industry adding two major screen credits to her name - Netflix’s latest releases, Havoc, and independent Welsh horror feature, The Mill Killers.
Katrina’s professional journey began while still a student in her third year when she was offered the opportunity to work as a Crowd Third Assistant Director on Havoc, a Netflix production starring actor, Tom Hardy. Filmed entirely in Wales, Havoc is the largest feature production ever shot exclusively in the country, with post-production completed in Cardiff.
“Havoc was very different from a lot of other projects I’ve worked on due to its larger budget,” Katrina said. “There were a lot more people to consider and it was initially very intimidating, but once I settled, I found the processes were the same as lower-budget projects.”
Her responsibilities included signing in supporting artists, coordinating their movements to and from set, and ensuring the smooth running of background activity – vital work that kept the ambitious production running efficiently. Although the scale was new, she felt well prepared.
“Because we’d spent time learning the language of set on the course at UWTSD, I already knew how to use radios and to communicate professionally on location,” she said. “If I hadn’t learned these things in lectures, I would have been lost.”
Kartrina credits the experience with not only boosting her confidence but also helping to build her future. “Havoc has been a big boost for my CV, and I made many connections on set that I am still in touch with,” she said. “Working for a name like Netflix has put me in a really good position for future projects, especially those larger-scale productions with big budgets.”
Havoc was not the only film Katrina got to work on during her final year as she secured another significant role as Assistant Director on Scopophobia, an independent Welsh horror film - directed by Carmarthen born filmmaker, Aled Owen - now titled The Mill Killers.
The film, shot in south Wales, is available to rent or buy on Amazon, iTunes, AppleTV, Google, and Sky in the UK and USA.
“I was lucky enough to work on The Mill Killers with some incredible filmmakers and Carmarthenshire and South Wales-based talent,” Katrina said. “My time at UWTSD provided me with a solid foundation for developing my practical abilities, which I was able to apply during the shoot, as well as the connections that enabled me to pursue this opportunity.”
Now as a graduate, Katrina is looking to build on her early success. “Since Havoc and The Mill Killers, I’ve been working at Dragon Post Production in Cardiff, focusing on film restoration and post-production,” she said. “In my free time, I’ve also been producing a documentary and a fiction short film, projects I wouldn’t have been able to take on without the experience I’ve gained so far.”
UWTSD staff who worked with Katrina during her time on the course are proud of her achievements.
Dr Brett Aggersberg, Film and Digital Media Lecturer, said: “Katrina has already found that by working hard on one production, you can be recommended for another. This opportunity has really given her the confidence that she’s on the right path. We’re proud to see our students using their knowledge in real-world settings and thriving.”
Dan Bailey, Media Technician and industry professional, added: “We always encourage students to combine their academic studies with hands-on experience. Katrina has taken that approach and really run with it - we’re excited to see what she does next.”
From working behind the scenes on a global Netflix production to helping bring a local indie horror to life, Katrina is already proving herself to be a rising talent in Welsh film. The combination of academic preparation and real-world experience has helped her stand out in an extremely competitive field, and with a solid foundation and growing industry experience, she’s now focused on building a dynamic and rewarding career in the industry.
To those considering a similar path, Katrina shares some advice. “Take all of the opportunities you can while in university and surround yourself with as many creatives as possible. Building a strong network is key.”
Further Information
Mared Anthony
Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: +447482256996