American honours for wartime drama film made in Wirral

Perduto, set on Merseyside during the 1940s, took honours including Best Experimental Film, Best Historical Film and Best Drama at the New York-based Oniros Film Awards and New York International Film Awards.

Created by Liverpool-based Claryn Scott, the story centres around British-born Nico, whose Italian father is interned as an Enemy Alien in wartime Britain.

Inspired by true events, the action takes place in June 1940 when Benito Mussolini became allies with Adolf Hitler to attack France and Britain.

Men living here aged 16 to 70 of enemy nationality, were rounded up and sent to camps across the UK.

Birkenhead actress Arabella Quinn and Liverpool actor Jack O'Connor in 'Perduto', which took honours including Best Experimental Film, Best Historical Film and Best Drama at the New York-based Oniros Film Awards and New York International Film Awards (Image: Helen Clar) Filming began in May this year with scenes shot in Thurstaston and Liverpool and edited at a recording studio in Upton.

Claryn who wrote and directed the production received the accolade for Best Female Filmaker at New Jersey Film Awards, whilst Liverpool-based Jack O'Connor was awarded Best Young Actor for his portrayal of Nico.

Perduto also received several accolades at New York-based Oniros Film Awards and New York International Film Awards.

Birkenhead actress and model Arabella Quinn Parker also stars in her debut role as a young girl named Lily who expresses hostility towards Nico in the days following his father's internment.

Poster for 'Perduto', which took honours including Best Experimental Film, Best Historical Film and Best Drama at the New York-based Oniros Film Awards and New York International Film Awards (Image: Helen Clar) Speaking of their awards success, Claryn said: "We're blown away by the positive reviews Perduto has received.

"The film is inspired by true events and Jack's portrayal of Nico really touched the hearts of the American audiences who said they were moved by his circumstances.

"It's an emotional story which Jack brought to life so beautifully."

Jack, 11, said: "Nico is a boy who feels totally lost and isolated in his country of birth.

"It was emotional playing him and I really enjoyed being a part of the film.

"It's reassuring to know audiences enjoy my portrayal and it's always lovely to receive an award."

Poster showing 'Perduto' honours including Best Experimental Film, Best Historical Film and Best Drama at the New York-based Oniros Film Awards and New York International Film Awards (Image: Helen Clar)