A 22-year-old graduate landed a role on a major Hollywood film just three months after finishing university – describing it as the moment he realised he had “made it”.
Alfie Vince, who graduated in summer 2025, recently finished working behind the scenes on a large-scale Universal production due for release in summer 2027.
He was part of the props department – the team responsible for creating everything a character interacts with on screen, from handheld items to large-scale set pieces.
“I finished university and within three months I was working on a major production. That was the moment where I thought - right, I’m in,” he said, adding the whole experience still feels “quite surreal”.
Originally from Lincolnshire, Alfie’s route into the industry began in local theatre.
He said: “I started out acting when I was younger, but I became more interested in what was happening behind the scenes – how everything was designed and built.”
This interest grew into a passion for set and prop-making, supported by a practical upbringing.
He said: “My dad’s a carpenter, so I grew up around that kind of work. It definitely helped - understanding materials and how things go together - and inspired me down a route of hands-on skills and creativity.”
Alfie’s went on to study a hands-on production design course at Bucks New University, choosing it in part for its industry links.
While studying, he built relationships with visiting professionals and secured work placements alongside his course. Technical staff also gave him valuable insight into the industry, with many having recently worked in – or still being connected to – professional productions.
“One of the guest lecturers opened the door for me. I stayed in touch and it led to valuable work experience,” he said.
Now working freelance, Alfie says the industry is fast-moving and competitive.
“It’s very competitive. You’ve got to be ready – if you don’t pick up the phone, someone else will,” he explained.
On a feature he worked on, he was part of a large-scale on-site team helping to create detailed, immersive environments.
He said: “It was very collaborative. You’re working as part of a big team, all bringing different skills together.”
Despite the rise of CGI, Alfie says there is still strong demand for practical, hands-on skills.
“There’s a lot of new technology coming in, but there’s still a huge need for physical builds,” he said. “A lot of productions are still choosing practical effects because of the creative possibilities they offer. It's not just about what technology can do – sometimes the decision is about creating something more authentic for the audience.”
Looking ahead, Alfie plans to continue building his experience across different areas before specialising.
He said: “At this stage, it’s about learning as much as possible. You don’t want to limit yourself too early.”
He added: “Try everything. Build up your knowledge across the board – it gives you more opportunities. A lot of it you learn on the job, but you’ve got to get yourself there first.”