For two weeks only, audiences around the world can watch the Oscar-nominated short film A Friend of Dorothy free on Attitude Magazine, a rare opportunity to experience one of the year’s most heartfelt festival favourites from home. Alongside the online release, viewers are also invited to join a special virtual screening event followed by an exclusive live Q&A with the film’s legendary star Miriam Margolyes and writer-director Lee Knight.
Presented by Q&Awards, the global event celebrates the film’s Academy Award® nomination and its growing reputation as one of the most moving live-action shorts of the year.
Written and directed by Knight, A Friend of Dorothy tells the touching story of Dorothy, an elderly woman living alone who forms an unexpected friendship with her young neighbour JJ after his football lands in her garden. Inspired by a real-life relationship, the film explores loneliness, acceptance and the quiet power of intergenerational connection.
Margolyes delivers a standout performance, bringing warmth, humour and emotional depth to a character that has resonated strongly with audiences and critics alike. The film also features Stephen Fry alongside rising talent Alistair Nwachukwu, further cementing its status as a must-watch short.
Following the screening, audiences can take part in a live conversation with Margolyes and Knight as they discuss the film’s journey from festival favourite to Oscar nominee, its real-life inspiration and the importance of addressing loneliness among older people. Supported by UK charity Age UK, the filmmakers are committed to extending the project’s impact through community screenings in schools, care homes and cultural spaces.
“At its heart, this is a story about being seen and about the friendships that can change us at any stage of life,” said Knight. “Sharing that message with audiences around the world is incredibly meaningful.”
The virtual event is free to attend, with registration required. Once registered, viewers receive a screening link via email, allowing global audiences to watch the film and join the live Q&A from anywhere.
Event Details
A Friend of Dorothy — Virtual Screening + Live Q&A
📅 Monday 2 March
🕕 Main screening: 6:00PM UK
🌙 Encore screenings: 1:00AM and 4:00AM UK (3 March)
🎟️ Free with RSVP — available worldwide
For short film fans, the next two weeks offer a unique double opportunity: stream the Oscar-nominated A Friend of Dorothy free via Attitude Magazine and join an intimate conversation with the creatives behind one of the year’s most quietly powerful stories.
Register online to watch and take part in the live Q&A.
