Millionaire backers hoping for a Bafta

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A group of property tycoons clubbed together to fund an independent film that has been nominated for a Bafta.

The 15 business associates each have a stake in The Killing Of John Lennon, the critically acclaimed story about Mark Chapman who murdered the former Beatle in 1980.

The film cost £1 million to make and the backers include the boss of the Malmaison hotel chain, a former Turner Prize judge and the man who manages the property interests of the rulers of Abu Dhabi.

The film's writer-director Andrew Piddington has been nominated for special achievement in a first film at next month's Baftas ceremony.

The driving force behind the funding arrangement was Beatles' fan Rod Pearson, former director of property firm Urban First and an executive producer of the film.

He persuaded other property millionaires to come on board after showing them the film's early rushes.

Mr Pearson, 58, said: "I was looking for an investment vehicle and was interested in documentaries at first but I met Andrew Piddington whose commitment to this film was just immense. I was initially concerned that it would glorify Chapman but Andrew assured me this wouldn't be the case."

The Killing Of John Lennon is the lowest budget film among the Bafta nominees but has been relatively successful and won the special jury award at the Tribeca Film Festival last year. The cast are unknown actors with newcomer Jonas Ball, 32, taking on the lead role of Chapman.

The lack of "star power" meant raising money was a huge challenge.

Mr Pearson said: "We had some bits of the film which we showed to industry people - you know, the bosses of Soho.

"A lot of people were impressed but I soon learned that in the film industry people do not back an unknown director and actor. That's when I brought in some friends who are more used to taking risks. When the film had been shot the distributors were amazed - they had never seen a film financed in such a way.

"I haven't made a return on my investment yet but understand it's a slow burn. We have signed some excellent distribution deals for the DVD. If Andrew wins the Bafta then a lot of us will be celebrating."

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