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47 Kilns

A novice potter tackles his health anxiety head first through a unique and never seen before challenge.

Thomas Carnes has taken on a personal challenge after finding his passion for pottery. Since Stoke-on-Trent has a deep routed history with bottle kilns and clay production, Thomas has set out to throw a pot in front of the remaining 47 bottle kilns around Stoke-on-Trent.

This documentary will show you how he found his passion for pottery and his life before and after he started the 47 bottle kiln challenge.

  • Joseph Maclachlan
    Director
  • Thomas Carnes
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Runtime:
    7 minutes 51 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    February 10, 2026
  • Production Budget:
    0 GBP
  • Country of Origin:
    United Kingdom
  • Country of Filming:
    United Kingdom
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Sony
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2:40
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Staffordshire University
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
  • First Frame: Student Film Festival
    Leicester
    United Kingdom
    March 28, 2026
    University of Leicester, Attenborough Film Theatre
    Best Documentary Winner
Director Biography - Joseph Maclachlan

My name is Joseph Maclachlan, I have been operating Sony cameras for the past 4 years, capturing stunning visuals. I've found my passion in documentary filmmaking and freelance videography which has led me to meet incredible talents who you'd never know would have incredible stories to share. I'm incredibly grateful that I get to make these projects and sharing these peoples lives with the world.

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Director Statement

47 Kilns follow Thomas from the health anxiety to his passion and love for clay. We go from a struggled man to a novice potter full of hope. Each Bottle Kiln we travel to with him is another step we take with him further away from his troubled past. Thomas then reflects on his past, remembering where he came from and how far he has come. He hopes that others can find inspiration from his story and take their life back through the form of creativity and drive.