TWO brothers from Wigton have seen success at an international film festival for their flick shot to a Lake District backdrop. 

The Groom brothers' debut feature film Between The Lights clinched the award for Best Foreign Film at the Myrtle Beach International Film Festival. 

Michael Groom (writer, director, co-producer) and (producer) David Groom's story follows Alice, a sceptical scientist who falls for reluctant medium Jay, before being taken on 'an odyssey of love, loss and discovery'. 

The film first had its European premiere at the Keswick Film Festival in February and a worldwide screening debut in New York at the Dances With Films festival. 

News and Star: Shot from Between the Lights, filmed at Keswick's DerwentwaterShot from Between the Lights, filmed at Keswick's Derwentwater (Image: Laal Blue Dot)

The pair's recent success was up against stiff competition from films such as the Canadian thriller Charlie Tango and Mexican flick El Campo.

"We're thrilled to return to MBIFF with our debut feature after our last short film was so well received there in 2018," Michael said. 

"It is a passion-fuelled film festival run by cinephiles who champion independent filmmakers and we couldn't hope for greater support.

"To win the prize for Best Foreign film is an honour - thank you," he said. 

Between The Lights, which features Christmas themes, is expected to be released in cinemas across the UK later this year and potentially be placed on a streaming service. 

The film itself also features a nod to The Cumberland News, with a specially-created copy of the paper being read in one scene by the character of Alice, played by Ines De Clercq. 

News and Star: Prop used within Between the LightsProp used within Between the Lights (Image: NQ)

The proud Cumbrians make their next stop on their tour of US film festivals, with their film heading to Los Angeles and the iconic TCL Chinese Theater on Hollywood's Walk of Fame in June.

"It has been such a pleasure to come back to the MBIFF and show our work in such a great cinema and to such engaged audiences," David said.  

News and Star: David Groom speaking at a Q&A during the MBIFFDavid Groom speaking at a Q&A during the MBIFF (Image: Laal Blue Dot)

"And to win Best Foreign Film is an absolute joy.

"The MBIFF really takes over the town, the local people are lovely and it’s a great place to work from in April.

"Going to miss the Palmetto State! Thanks to Jerry Dalton and Heather Mayes for always putting on such a great event and pulling in great crowds," he said.