A filmmaker has won an international award for his documentary showcasing Dundee’s harrowing sex industry.
Nathan Brake has received plaudits for the hard-hitting film, Hidden, which shared chilling testimonies from women who have worked as prostitutes in the city.
The 33-year-old, who is the Creative Director of VIM Media, was named Best Director of a Short Documentary at Fusion’s North Europe International Film Festival at a ceremony in London.
The film was created in partnership with the Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (WRASAC) to show the human side of the city’s vulnerable sex workers.
The documentary highlights the alarming change in prostitution over the years and quashes the misconception that sex work normally takes place on the streets.
As part of the film, Superintendent Shaun McKillop of Police Scotland warned organised crime gangs are advertising women on social media and mobile phones across the country.
Women are sold for sex in the cities for a day or two at a time before being moved to another location.
Mr Brake, an Abertay University graduate, said he was “honoured” to receive the accolade.
He said: “During the week, before the awards ceremony, I had been able to go and see some of the other documentaries as there were quite a few directors nominated.
“I was completely blown away by how good all of the films were. It didn’t cross my mind at all that I could win with the amazing level of talent I was up against.
“It was such an amazing feeling to hear that I had won and I’m just so delighted and honoured.”
Alongside celebrating Hidden’s success, Mr Brake has been putting the plans in motion for his next documentary, which will also feature Dundee.
He added: “It’s on a very sensitive topic and I think it has the potential to be very powerful.
“I can’t reveal too much about it just now but I am very pleased with how it’s going.
“I’m also keen to partner with other local charities to tell their stories on issues that matter.”
