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Paula Says Hi

A personal and intimate portrait of disabled, gender fluid cosplayer Paul/Paula. Inviting us into her world, Paula lives life to the full, embracing her passion for cosplay and sci-fi conventions. Paul offers his intimate thoughts on accepting their disability and the joy of gender euphoria.

  • James C Thompson
    Director
  • Alex Bates
    Producer
    Badges, Occupied, Dare to Dream, Born of Water
  • Laura López
    Producer
    True Detective: Night Country
  • Paul/Paula
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Runtime:
    13 minutes 41 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    August 29, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    1,500 GBP
  • Country of Origin:
    United Kingdom
  • Country of Filming:
    United Kingdom
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Leeds International Film Festival
    Leeds
    United Kingdom
    November 8, 2024
    Yorkshire Premiere
    Best Film: Yorkshire Short Film Competition
  • Northern Lights Fantastic Film Festival
    Akureyri
    Iceland
    November 1, 2024
    Iceland Premiere
    Special Mention
  • Bolton International Film Festival
    Bolton
    United Kingdom
    October 5, 2024
    World Premiere
    Official Selection
Director Biography - James C Thompson

An LGBTQ+ filmmaker with a passion for telling stories about the extraordinary.

Working as an industry professional over the last year, James has undertaken a story lining role on Hollyoaks, as well as working in the art department on projects for Netflix and HBO.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

Paula Says Hi has been in the works for several years now, I first met Paula at my first ever comic con when I was a teenager and I knew that their story had to be told.

The moment finally felt right to make the project when I heard about the Channel 4 small funds commission as they were seeking out local characters.

I'm incredibly grateful to my small crew for all the incredible work they've done under such a small budget and I'm very proud of the final result.