A cuppa with our UNIT Runners Amanda and Lara
We sat down for a chat with the amazing UNIT Runners to discuss all things UNIT. Here’s what Amanda Ferrini and Lara Brigdale-Hall had to say…
- What inspires you and drives you both?
Amanda – I have a real passion for storytelling! Whether it’s IN Film, TV, or Commercials, I love how post-production brings everything together, adding that final touch to it. The fast-paced energy of the industry, the creative people, and the constant learning keeps me going every day.
Lara – I’ve always wanted to work in the arts, and the film industry combines so many different creative elements (audio, colour, moving image, design) – it’s just the perfect amalgamation. Being a part of a cutting edge UNIT team in an exciting industry drives me forward every day.
2. How is it being part of the new gen Running team?
Amanda – The team is everything; you learn from everyone, and no two days are the same. It’s a whirlwind, but that’s what makes it exciting.
Lara – Our team is the best. Every day there is something different happening – there’s always an opportunity to learn, and our Head of Facility always makes it fun.
- Tell us about your way into Running? What you studied?
Amanda – I studied film, but honestly, nothing prepares you more than hands-on experience. I quickly realised how much I love the post-production world. Running feels like the perfect way to get my foot in the door.
Lara – I studied film in Australia and then moved to London last year to explore the post-production opportunities over here. I met Darryl, UNIT’s brilliant Commercial Director, just as a position opened up in their running team, and the rest is history.
- What has inspired you to get into this career?
Amanda – Films, TV and Storytelling have always been my thing. Seeing the behind-the-scenes of how everything is pieced together blew my mind, and I knew I had to be part of it. Also, I’ve always loved problem-solving and being in a fast-moving environment.
Lara – I always loved Film and TV but very quickly realised that I was not cut out for being on the front side of the camera… I guess it was a natural progression from there!
- Which departments are you wanting to get into?
Amanda – Colour grading! There’s something so magical about how grading can completely transform the mood and emotion of a scene. The way colours shape the storytelling, set the tone, and bring everything to life – that’s what excites me. I love seeing how a raw image evolves into something cinematic.
Lara – I have lately started training in Flame with our amazing UNIT VFX team and am totally fascinated. It’s a whole side of post-production that I’d never gotten close to before and it feels like a new world has opened up for me.
- How is it running UNIT front of house?
Amanda – It’s a mix of high energy, organisation, and making sure everything runs smoothly. You meet so many people, get to be the friendly face of the company, and keep the good vibes flowing. It’s a great way to learn about every department and see how post-production magic happens.
Lara – I absolutely love it. Everyone I meet is so inspiring, creative, supportive, and fun. Obviously the idea of being a runner is to swiftly move up in the ranks, but to be honest I’ll grieve for my running days when they’re behind me!
7. What are you watching / seen in cinema recently / reading / listening to right now?
Amanda – Right now, I’m watching Yellow Stone, recently saw Nosferatu, and I’ve been listening to a lot of MPB (Brazilian music). And for reading, Rivals has been keeping me hooked!
Lara – As I haven’t been in the UK for long, I’ve been trying to immerse myself in as much British cinema as possible – especially the shows and films that we’ve worked on at UNIT! I’ve recently watched the first two seasons of The Devil’s Hour and loved it – but the trick is avoiding spoilers for series three while they work on it.
