Brentwood School Starlet Shines in Hollywood Film

Published by Brentwood School on Tuesday 14th of January 2025

Already a seasoned actress, Delilah is making her big-screen debut in the much-anticipated feature film Here, set to hit UK cinemas on 17th January. Directed by the legendary Robert Zemeckis (Back to the Future, Forrest Gump, The Polar Express), Here stars Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Michelle Dockery, and Gwylim Lee.

Thirteen-year-old Delilah, a Performing Arts and Academic Scholar, plays the daughter of Michelle Dockery and Gwylim Lee’s characters, and showcases her musical talents in the film, performing a violin piece composed by Alan Silvestri.

Her journey to this major cinematic role has been marked by an impressive portfolio of performances. Delilah made her Netflix debut in the 2022 festive comedy-drama Christmas on Mistletoe Farm and appeared in an episode of the beloved BBC period drama Call the Midwife. She appeared in a West End production of Les Misérables, and also starred as Lily Potter Jnr in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre in the West End.

Delilah shared her excitement about her role in Here: “Being part of Here was an incredible experience. I started costume appointments four months before filming, and even this was magical. Joanna Johnson is so talented and knowledgeable and designed the most special costumes for me. I felt so beautiful wearing the outfits, and part of me wishes we still wore styles from 1918 today.

“The violin piece I played was composed especially by Alan Silvestri, and the props department created a violin fitting for the time period – I wasn’t allowed to use a rest to play! Bob Zemeckis, the director, is a warm and kind man with a very clear vision of his aims. I very much enjoyed being directed by him and discussing my character with him.

“My parents are played by Michelle Dockery and Gwylim Lee, and I loved my time with them both as they are such talented and delightful people. The days of filming at Pinewood Studios fell right next to my opening in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the West End, so I had the most incredible few weeks!

“I feel extremely lucky to have been part of this production and met so many wonderful people from my drivers to all the people on set. I will always treasure the memories of this experience and am looking forward to watching it on Friday.”

Here is a groundbreaking film, exploring the events that unfold in one specific location over time. Filmed entirely from a single, fixed camera perspective, the production uses advanced technology to alter the age of the characters as the story progresses. Though innovative in approach, the film remains a heartwarming and emotional narrative, ending on a poignant note.

Brentwood School’s Director of Performing Arts, Mr Florian Cooper, expressed the school’s pride in Delilah’s accomplishments: “Delilah is a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication, talent, and passion. We are incredibly proud of her achievements both on stage and screen, and we look forward to watching her career continue to flourish.”