Alistair Nwachukwu Stars Alongside Miriam Margolyes and Stephen Fry in New Short Film A Friend of Dorothy
2019 Luke Westlake Scholarship alumnus Alistair Nwachukwu appears in the upcoming British short film A Friend of Dorothy, starring screen legends Miriam Margolyes and Stephen Fry.
Acclaimed young actor Alistair Nwachukwu is set to feature in the poignant new short film A Friend of Dorothy, joining an esteemed cast led by Miriam Margolyes (Harry Potter) and Stephen Fry (Wilde). The film marks the directorial debut of actor Lee Knight, known for starring opposite Ian McKellen in Prime Video’s Hamlet.
A moving tale of unlikely connection
Set in contemporary London, A Friend of Dorothy explores the touching relationship between Dorothy, an elderly woman living alone (played by Margolyes), and JJ, a young neighbour portrayed by Nwachukwu. When JJ’s football unexpectedly lands in Dorothy’s garden, a gentle friendship blossoms—bridging generations and illuminating themes of loneliness, connection, and queer identity.
The story delicately weaves LGBTQ+ issues with the broader conversation about isolation in old age, offering both heart and humour in equal measure.
Alistair Nwachukwu: A talent on the rise
For Alistair Nwachukwu, a 2019 Luke Westlake Scholarship alumnus, A Friend of Dorothy is a meaningful and high-profile step in an increasingly impressive career. His performance as JJ showcases his range and emotional depth, positioning him as a compelling voice among the UK’s next generation of screen talent.
A strong creative team behind the scenes
Shot on location at The Charterhouse in London and a private residence in Kensington & Chelsea, A Friend of Dorothy is produced by Filthy Gorgeous Productions in association with A Marlow’s Production, Double Dice Films, and Namesake Films.
The film is written, directed, and executive produced by Lee Knight, with producers James Dean, Scottie Fotré, and Max Marlow. Additional executive producers include Harry Burnett Rae, Charles Gordon, Nicky Hale, Soumia Majumdar, Nichola Martin, Elliott Linger, and Ingrid Tarrant.
Key crew includes:
Vanessa Whyte – Cinematographer
Amanda Bernstein – Production Designer
Francisco Rodriguez-Weil – Costume Designer
Also featuring in the cast is Oscar Lloyd, known for Stranger Things: The First Shadow.
With its nuanced script, cross-generational casting, and timely themes, A Friend of Dorothy promises to be a moving and impactful short. Alistair Nwachukwu’s role as JJ is central to the film’s heart, marking another milestone for the 2019 Luke Westlake Scholarship alum as he continues his ascent in British film.
