BBC Ideas: Whiskers

the project

Commissioned by the BBC and The Royal Society, this playful short doc dives into the fascinating science of whiskers (the body part, not the cat food). Aimed at 18–35-year-olds, it blends humour, charm, and expert insight to make complex science feel accessible and fun.

Role: Producer / Director

Platforms: BBC Ideas website, YouTube and BBC’s socials.

Production: Jist Studios

Client: BBC Ideas

the results

📺 250k+ views across BBC Ideas and social platforms.

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Pre-Production & Logistics

Project Management

Creative Development

Script

Shooting Producer / Director

Offline Editor

Post-Production Producer

Client Management

a bit more…

One of my favourite parts of this film actually came from a pre-production challenge. The commissioner had suggested filming part of Dr. Grant’s interview in a cat café. However, I wasn’t getting access at any local cafés. Then, after a call with Dr. Grant, I learned she actually finds cat whiskers a bit dull and is much more fascinated by porcupines.

That unexpected detail led me to Reaseheath Mini Zoo, where we were given access to film Robyn sitting among live porcupines. They even wandered into frame during the interview, creating some genuinely engaging moments that let Robyn’s personality shine. It was a great way to bring some lightness and life to the film, as I didn’t want it to feel like an overly serious science doc.