A COMEDY thriller movie, which was filmed across several locations in Harwich and surrounding areas, has been nominated for a national award.

Lucas & Albert, which features two ageing hitmen on their last job, is the first release from writing duo Anthony Longhurst and Robert Putt.

The dark comedy thriller has been nominated in the Best Feature Film category at this year’s National Film Awards, alongside Oscar favourite 1917, the Astronaut, Rabid, and The Corrupted.

Mr Longhurst, who also plays one of the movie’s main characters, said he is over the moon the film had received national recognition.

He said: “We are up against 1917, which really feels like Colchester United playing in the quarter-finals against Real Madrid, or Bayern Munich.

“We didn’t have millions as the other movies had, but we still got nominated and I hope this movie will put Harwich more on the map, especially being nominated for best picture.”

The producer said they filmed at various locations in Harwich and Dovercourt, such as at the Redoubt Fort, as well as in Lawford, Manningtree, and Clacton.

He added: “Harwich was the main part of it, and we wanted to premier the movie at the Electric Palace, but because we couldn’t, we ended up doing it in Clacton’s Century cinema.

“I’m absolutely delighted, not just for me but for anyone who took part in it. We had some college people, also residents and local business who helped us out, about 12 of them.”

The feature film, which was directed by Darren Cook, has a vast television cast including John Altman, known for playing Nick Cotton in EastEnders, and Michael McKell, from medical soap opera, Doctors.

Cheska Leslie, 38, of Main Road, Dovercourt, was one of the residents who got heavily involved with the movie.

The mum-of-three said she is really excited, and the nomination is a huge achievement for everyone.

She added: “It is an absolute pleasure to work with all these hard-working, devoted people, who put all their work to take this as far as possible.

“It was a good experience for everybody.”

The cast will find out if they have scooped the top accolade on March 20, during a ceremony in London.

However, to be in with a chance of winning, the crew are relying on votes cast by members of the public.

To vote for the film, visit nationalfilmawards.org/voting.