2010 BA (Hons) Acting Graduate Hayley Squire’s latest film, I, Daniel Blake has won the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
The Ken Loach directed film, tells the story of a 59-year-old joiner in the North-East of England who falls ill and requires state assistance for disability from the Employment and Support Allowance. While he endeavours to overcome the red tape involved in getting this assistance, he meets single mother Katie (played by Hayley Squires) who, in order to escape a homeless persons' hostel, must take up residence in a flat 300 miles away.
Cannes judges praised Hayley’s and co-star Dave Johns “depictions of the characters.”
Hayley tweeted after the announcement; “I, Daniel Blake was made to give voice to those who need it. Palme d’Or is a triumph that makes that voice extremely loud.”
I, Daniel Blake will be released in the UK later this year