Member in Focus: Samantha Beddoe

We recently caught up with PGGB Member Samantha Beddoe, a Financial Controller and Executive Producer with almost 20 years of experience in the Film & TV industry. Samantha started her career as an Assistant Accountant back in 2008 and has since worked on high-profile productions such as Wrath of Man, Emma, Atlanta and Avengers: Age of Ultron.

Most recently, Samantha worked on as Executive Producer on Wasteman, a prison film produced by Adolescence director Philip Barantini, which premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. Partly shot in a disused prison in Shepton Mallet, as well as in a studio in Enfield, the film follows Parolee Taylor, whose hopes for a fresh start are jeopardised by cellmate Dee's arrival.

Samantha told us what it was like working in Bristol, her partnership with Philip Barantini, and how she helped bring the film to life.

Hi Samantha – congratulations on the release of Wasteman! Can you tell us a bit more about the film?

Wasteman is a bold film that really leans into authenticity. At its core, it explores prison life in a way that feels honest and grounded. The creative team took risks, and I think audiences will really connect with the world and the characters we’ve built.

Could you share how you started off in the industry?

I started out as an Assistant Accountant back in 2008. I’d met a Production Assistant who was temping at my ‘normal job’, she was telling me about her work, and it sounded amazing. She pointed me in the direction of The Knowledge Online, so I emailed all the accountants on that list. I followed up for about 6 months, and eventually, I got a job with the wonderful Charles Bates. I was able to get the role as I had accounts experience outside the industry, and those skills were transferable. Then, as the accounts teams grew, I was able to progress to bigger teams and work on bigger shows/films all over the world, eventually moving through the ranks to HOD.

What was it like working with the production team on Wasteman? We're pleased to see fellow PG Members Rob Jelley and Jon Millar on the credits!

It was genuinely collaborative. One of the strongest aspects of this production was the trust between departments, from the writers and director to cast and crew. Everyone understood the vision and brought their own expertise to elevate it.

Were there any specific challenges you faced together, and how did you overcome them?

Not enough money or time, but I think that’s the case with most Indie features. Luckily, we had a very resourceful and positive team who were able to make it work within the constraints.

Can you tell us what exactly drew you to Wasteman? 

When Phil and I read the script, it was so well-written that we could immediately visualise it. I also read it so quickly because I was invested immediately. I knew we had something special then.

Why did you decide to shoot in Bristol? 

We’d looked at a few locations that didn't quite work, but as soon as we saw Shepton Mallett, we knew it was perfect!

You've worked with Philip [Barantini, director of Adolescence] for many years, and recently sold a stake in the production company you founded together to Avalon. What does this exciting news mean for you, and what's next? 

It means we could invest in new team members and in-house development. We love what we have created at ‘Its All Made Up Productions’ and want to continue to grow and make quality content with exciting creatives.

Could you tell us a bit more about the role of an Executive Producer and what you do on a daily or weekly basis?

Being an Executive Producer can be quite a broad role, so I leaned into my strengths and was able to offer production and financial support to the Producer and Line Producer throughout. As well as being involved at the script stage, finance planning and throughout the edit, offering support and guidance where possible.

And finally, what skills do you think are essential for succeeding as an EP?

As well as knowledge of the industry, I think being a strong communicator is essential; there are often multiple Execs on films, so it’s important you are heard. It also helps if you’re a people person; understanding people and managing expectations can be very important.

New Film Releases

WASTEMAN

Agile Films, Bankside Films, Hoopsa Films and more

PGGB Members:

Rob Jelley – Line Producer

Jon Miller – Production Accountant

Samantha Beddoe – Executive Producer  

PGGB Partners and Affiliates:

Chapters, Entertainment Partners, TPH Global, Loop Talent and Digital Orchard

THE MOMENT

A24, Studio365, 2AM and more

PGGB Members:

Johann Knobel – Executive Producer

Sean Browne – Financial Controller 

Amanda Edgington – 1st Assistant Accountant

Tristin Norwell – Post Production Coordinator (Bleat)

Caitlin Wilcox – Production Secretary 

PGGB Partners and Affiliates:

Trevanna London LTD, Tysers, Salon Rentals, MBS Equipment Co and Sargent Disc