A blockbuster style fairy tale voiced by Oscar winning actor Olivia Coleman to highlight the impact of dementia on families’ lives is among winners at this year’s Charity Film of the Year awards.

Alzheimer’s Research UK says its part animation, part live action Change The Ending film is its “hardest hitting campaign film yet”.

It uses a fairy tale narrative to show how dementia “robs people of their ‘happily ever after’ to raise awareness of the devastating impact of this condition, in the hope of rallying support for the charity to find a cure”.

In the film a prince and princess see their lives “ripped apart” when he develops dementia.

This includes experiencing forgetfulness and no longer being able to do everyday tasks, as well as becoming fearful and paranoid and needing care.

The film has been named Charity Film of the Year at the Smiley Charity Film Awards 2023 to showcase the array of promotional films for good causes.

“Congratulations to all our finalists and a special round of applause for the winners who have set new benchmarks in philanthropic storytelling,” said the award scheme’s organisers.

“Each film presented a unique narrative, deeply resonating with our shared commitment to making a positive social impact.”

“We're already looking forward to next year's awards and the inspiring stories that will emerge.”



Meanwhile, winner of the People’s Choice Film of the Year award is he RSPCA for its film Together, which highlights how the charity rescues animals impacted by cruelty.

Here one of its drivers is seen running alone to the aid of a dog who is being badly treated, although she knows she is working as part of a team of support workers at the charity who she imagines running alongside her.

This film was created to drive awareness of our work - saving animals on a daily basis; we wanted to show that while our frontline staff often work alone, they are supported by a huge range of staff volunteers and supporters, who, together are there for animals,” said the charity.



Other winners include refugee support charity RefYouMe, mental health charity Menfulness and We Are Donors, who won awards for charities with an income under £100,000.

A full list of winners can be found here.

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