Why Submit to Iris? James Ley on Sleazy Tiger and the Iris Experience
One of the standout films of Iris 2025, Sleazy Tiger made a huge impact with audiences—and Jay Newton’s performance as Alan went on to win Best Performance in a Male Role (Best British).
- Team Iris
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As Sleazy Tiger prepares to reach even wider audiences on Channel 4, we caught up with director James Ley to talk about his Iris experience, the journey behind the film, and what’s coming next.
Sleazy Tiger was selected as one of the 15 Best British films at Iris 2025. What was your experience like sharing the film with the Iris audience?
It was such a delight to share this film with the audience. I think I went to every screening (I'm that guy) and it was such a thrill to see the film in this crazily impressive selection of films. The IRIS audience is a lovely mix of incredibly friendly and supportive while still being that discerning film buff audience too. I think that's what makes it so nice is that it's not up its own bum but at the same time the juries are really knowledgeable and the curation is so good!
Jay Newton won Best Performance in a Male Role for his portrayal of Alan. How did it feel to see one of your actors recognised in such a big way?
It was such a buzz. When the award was announced they read out the feedback from the jury and I was like, it's Jay, it's Jay! I'm biased and Jay's biggest fan and it was so incredible to hear all the things that the jury loved about what he did. I think he's really special and I'm so glad he stood out and also that's no mean feat because there were many phenomenal performances in the films and that made it even more special for him to win!
As part of the Best British shortlist, Sleazy Tiger is now streaming on Channel 4 for a year. What does this wider platform mean to you and the team?
This has to be one of the best perks of any film festival ever. It's amazing to be able to casually say to go and watch in on Channel 4 and it's also giving us a stream of new viewers to discover the film, and reaching beyond the regular short film audience. So yes, it's so fab and a huge buzz for it to be there.
Since Sleazy Tiger came to Iris through open submissions, what advice would you give filmmakers thinking about submitting for Iris 2026?
I'd say absolutely go for it and submit your film. I think it's pretty rare to get welcomed into a family when you get selected for a festival and that's what happens at Iris and it's really genuine. I went to Cardiff for the launch and then I went back and haunted the festival and I was made to feel so welcome and part of it. We applied at the start of our festival run so that was a good move as it was fun to have a film that had only played a few festivals by the time we played Iris as that was such a special moment in understanding the film more and seeing it in the programme. And also the variety of films speaks of a really great programme. Plus, comedy sometimes doesn't get awards and IRIS isn't like that and can see the value and importance of a comedy. There were a lot of huge laughs in that cinema. I'd say have no reservations and go for it!
Looking back at your journey, is there something you wish you’d known when you were making and submitting your film?
Making the film. Yes, heaps, as it was a debut film, but fortunately I had some incredible people including the legendary Alan Cumming to make the film shine. All our HODs and our producers were so experienced so they really are mainly to thank for the success of the film. Submitting the film... do flag anything exciting as it makes a difference. Alan was epically generous to be in the film and so having a neon sign in the app that says he's in it was a good move.
Finally, looking back, was there a standout moment at Iris that left a lasting impression on you?
I think the friendliness of everyone, the social events and the buzz of Best of British Day. You can't beat a bit of hyping and Iris really know who to hype in the best way. It just made it all really fun to be part of. I feel quite nostalgic typing that. Also, short film makers are matched with hosts and my host Ed was so lovely and welcoming. This also is a massive perk and makes going to the whole festival possible, which is recommended as there's such a packed programme of films, talks and events. I really hope I have a film to submit again soon! I'll definitely go back regardless. I LOVE Iris and Cardiff!
