Titled The Third Shift, the 30-minute horror film was created by Gloucester-based filmmaker Clive Barzillia and co-director Ricky Gunter, using an all-local cast and crew. The film explores paranormal goings-on during the eerie overnight hours – and much of it was inspired by real reports of ghostly activity inside the prison walls.
“We’ve been planning this for a while,” said Clive, who also runs events at the former prison. “The place has so much character and history – it’s the perfect backdrop for a horror.”
The title refers to the late-night shift, usually between 11pm and 7am, a time well known in the paranormal world as the most active for ghost hunting. The team filmed the project in just one night, using a mix of mobile phones, HD cameras and night vision to give it that raw, unnerving feel.
“We didn’t fake the reactions – we really filmed in total darkness,” Clive explained. “We’d surprise the actors with planned noises, but the fear you see is very real.”
“Everyone involved is local – from the cast to the sound design,” he said. “It’s a proper community project.” – Clive
Throughout the shoot, the small team of six all reported strange occurrences – including unexplained footsteps, distant whistling, and one actor being tapped on the shoulder while alone, refusing to work solo afterwards.
Filming took place in some of the prison’s most atmospheric locations, including the iconic A-wing, the dark and twisting corridors of C-wing, and even the morgue, previously used during the Salvation-Z horror experience.
Clive, who has previously made smaller video projects, said this was his first proper short film. He handled the filming and post-production with Ricky Gunter, clocking up around 200 hours of editing and music production.
The first screening of The Third Shift will take place at Palace Cinema in Cinderford on Thursday 10th April at 8:30PM. Entry is just £5 on the door, and all proceeds will go towards the upkeep of the historic venue, specifically to help restore its front entrance.
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Clive and Ricky hope this is just the beginning. Plans are already in motion to show the film at other independent cinemas across the South West.
🗓️ Thursday 10th April 2025
🕣 8:30PM
📍 Palace Cinema, Cinderford
💷 £5 entry – pay on the door
🎬 All proceeds go to the cinema’s restoration fund
“We want to support the cinema as much as we can,” said Clive. “It’s one of those places with real local charm. If you’re into the paranormal, or just want to support a bit of independent creativity, come along and give it a watch.”
If you’re a fan of spooky stories, local filmmaking, or just fancy a night out with a difference, this is one event you won’t want to miss. And if the film gives you a taste for ghost hunting, Gloucester Prison is still open for overnight investigations – if you’re brave enough.
Flood disruption remains the main issue across Gloucestershire today, with closures still affecting routes near Maisemore and low-lying Severn floodplain roads.
Here’s your Thursday morning travel briefing.
Good morning! 👋 It’s a mild but damp start to the day across Gloucestershire (around 10°C). While rainfall is light, river levels remain elevated, and several flood-related closures are affecting key routes this morning.
Here’s your daily briefing👇
Major long-term road closures remain in place across Gloucestershire today, with Forest Road in Lydney shut and new city centre layouts continuing to cause delays. Wet weather may slow journeys further, so allow extra time before setting off.
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