Broadchurch director and former University of Gloucestershire student talks about “incredible experience”

As the dramatic final ever episode of Broadchurch hits our screens on Easter Monday, University of Gloucestershire graduate Lewis Arnold reveals what it was like to be a director on series three of the hit ITV thriller.

Lewis, who graduated from the university in 2007 with a first class honours degree in Video Production, directed the emotionally charged episode six of Broadchurch, which harked back to the turmoil and grief of series one. Now it is all set for an explosive conclusion when the trilogy reaches its end in the final ever episode on Easter Monday (17 April) at 9pm. Since graduating from the University of Gloucestershire Lewis Arnold has built an impressive portfolio as a director, including popular TV shows ‘Misfits’, ‘Banana’ and ‘Humans’.

Birmingham born Lewis says the chance to direct Broadchurch and work with writer Chris Chibnall was a “rare opportunity” as he was a huge fan of the show.

He continues; “Myself and my partner would always make sure we were home in time on a Monday evening to see who had killed Danny Latimer. It was a rare opportunity, working on a show that you’re such a fan of with characters that you adore. However this meant I was incredibly nervous when I went to the read through, watching all these great actors bring life to Chris’ words. I had nothing to worry about as the cast were so lovely to work with and obviously incredibly talented.”

Lewis has recently returned to The University of Gloucestershire’s Media School, this time as a guest lecturer on the Film Production course working with students on short form and commercial shorts.

Anne Dawson, Head of the School of Media at the University of Gloucestershire said: “Lewis is a fantastic example of a graduate who took every opportunity during his time with us and who quickly carved out an incredibly successful career. He remains very close to the school, coming back to deliver workshops to our students and to talk about this work. We challenge and support our students in equal measure to become the best they can be as creative individuals. The Media School at University of Gloucestershire is gaining increasing recognition as one of the most innovative and professionally focussed in the sector.”

Photo credit: Danielle Baguley’s photo of Lewis directing E4’s Banana.