Josh Van Nes' Clout Chasers Heads to the Festival Circuit Following Completion

A bold new British short film inspired by one of the UK's most talked-about acts of environmental vandalism is heading to the international festival circuit.

Clout Chasers, directed by Josh Van Nes and written by Matthew Rowney, has officially been submitted to film festivals following the completion of post-production. The dark comedy takes loose inspiration from the infamous felling of the Sycamore Gap tree, using the incident as a backdrop to explore modern influencer culture, online validation and the pursuit of internet fame.

Rather than retelling the real-life events, Clout Chasers imagines the motivations behind two ordinary men consumed by the desire to be noticed in a world driven by clicks, views and viral moments. Blending sharp satire with atmospheric drama, the film examines how social media has transformed notoriety into a currency of its own.

The film stars Angus Foulkes and Harry Chambers, whose performances anchor the story's balance of humour, tension and social commentary. Set against the backdrop of one of Britain's most recognisable landmarks, the short asks an unsettling question: what happens when the pursuit of online clout becomes more important than the consequences?

Writer and producer Matthew Rowney said:

"The Sycamore Gap incident became one of those moments that everyone seemed to have an opinion on. Rather than recreate what happened, we wanted to explore the mentality behind chasing attention at any cost. It's a story about social media, ego and the strange ways people seek significance in the digital age."

Director Josh Van Nes added:

"What drew me to the script was its ability to balance satire with something much darker underneath. It's funny, uncomfortable and surprisingly human. We wanted audiences to laugh before asking themselves why these characters make the choices they do."

Produced by Panchariya Brothers Productions, Clout Chasers continues the company's focus on character-driven stories with a contemporary edge. The short has now begun its journey through the international festival circuit, with screenings expected to be announced in the coming months.

With its blend of biting humour, timely subject matter and striking visuals, Clout Chasers aims to spark conversation about the culture of online fame—and the increasingly blurred line between visibility and infamy.