Documentary
2026 Festival Attended
1 Nomination

Bound by Blood

On the eve of a title fight, bare knuckle fighter Dean Hunt reflects on how the brutal sport that defines him has also shaped his identity, mental health, and family bonds.

Runtime: 15:16 Genres: , ,

Synopsis

Bound by Blood follows bare knuckle fighter Dean Hunt in the lead up to a title fight, as he reflects on the life that has shaped him inside and outside the ring. Through moments of preparation, stillness, and personal reflection, the film explores how the brutal discipline of the sport has become a source of structure, focus, and release. What emerges is not simply a portrait of physical endurance, but an examination of identity forged through struggle and commitment. As the fight approaches, Dean considers the role the sport has played in saving him from self destruction and strengthening his relationships with his family. Violence and vulnerability sit side by side, revealing the emotional weight carried beneath the surface of competition. Visually driven and intimate in tone, Bound by Blood looks beyond the spectacle of combat to explore masculinity, mental health, and the complex ways purpose can be found in unlikely places.

Cast & Crew

Directed by
Eddy Reilly
Produced by
Ben Ogden
Cast
Dean Hunt

Film Details

Category
Documentary
Project Type
Short
Runtime
15:16
Genre(s)
Crime, Drama, Thriller
Language
English
Completion Year
2025

Production Details

Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Country of Filming
United Kingdom
Production Budget
£100
Aspect Ratio
16:09
Film Color
Color

Creator / Status

First-time Filmmaker
Yes
Student Project
Yes
School / University
University of Salford

Festival & Release

Festival Edition
2026
UK Premiere
No
Attending
Yes

Awards / Nominations

Nomination
Best Documentary
Bound by Blood
2026
APR
18
Session No.
3
Session Starts
14:00
Approx viewing
14:36
Session Finish
15:25

Session information

This screening is part of a shared programme. The films listed below appear in the same session.

  • Mod (Turn)
  • Uhuru
  • Rat Trap
  • No Strings
  • Bound by Blood
  • Apocalips
  • Kill
  • I Want To Go Back To Yingcheng