A bereaved dad’s documentary that gives an exclusive glimpse into the world of a North West children’s hospice is set for release worldwide – following a major 10-year distribution deal.
Buffalo 8 has acquired global distribution rights to ‘The Little Things’, a deeply moving feature documentary directed by the award-winning Thomas Elliott Griffiths.
The film provides an intimate look into the remarkable work of Derian House Children’s Hospice in Lancashire, England, sharing the powerful and personal stories of families, staff, and volunteers through interrotron interviews.
Produced by Paul Woodward of Old Swan Films, ‘The Little Things’ was inspired by Woodward’s own experience at Derian House, where his son, Kalel, received care until his passing in 2019.
The film seeks to break down misconceptions about children’s hospices, highlighting not just the challenges but also the love, support, and treasured memories created within.
“Both Tom and I are delighted that Buffalo 8 has picked up our documentary for global distribution,” said Paul.
“The entire team at Old Swan Films worked incredibly hard to deliver a truly beautiful cinematic story. We have all taken Derian House to our hearts, and we hope audiences around the world will too. This is an opportunity for people to step inside a children’s hospice and witness what truly happens behind the walls. They will be moved, and they will be filled with love.”
Lancashire-born Steve Pemberton, BAFTA-winning actor and writer (Inside No. 9, The League of Gentlemen), has been a vocal supporter of the project, joining the team as an Executive Producer.
“I think it’s fantastic that ‘The Little Things’ will now have the potential to be seen by audiences worldwide,” said Steve.
“It is a deeply moving documentary exploring the incredible work of children’s hospices, beautifully filmed at Derian House. To support this project is an honour, and I’m sure the film will touch the hearts of families everywhere who have experienced hospice care.”
Alongside Pemberton, the film also features Kayleigh-Paige Rees (Sanditon, 2023 National Film Award winning Keep Calm & Carry On), Kiki Deville (The Voice), and Debbie Honeywood (Sorry We Missed You) as executive producers. Buffalo 8 founders Matthew Helderman and Luke Taylor also serve as executive producers, with Nikki Stier Justice, Head of Distribution, arranging the deal.
Since its private screening, ‘The Little Things’ has gained industry recognition, receiving a nomination for the Smiley Charity Film Award, part of the world’s largest cause-based film competition, and a five-star review from UK Film Review, which described the film as “the most moving documentary I have seen in years,” praising it as “inspiring, raw, honest, and insightful”.
‘The Little Things’ has garnered strong support from Together for Short Lives, a leading charity for seriously ill children, which works closely with the UK’s 54 children’s hospices.
Karen Edwards OBE, Chief Executive Officer at Derian House, said: “This is incredible news for ‘The Little Things’ documentary, which is a powerful reminder of the difference hospice care makes, and we are so proud to share these stories with the world. The response to the film so far has been overwhelming, and we hope it inspires more people to support children’s hospices.
“We are so grateful to Paul and his team for their generosity in giving up their time and using their talent to help us show the world what a wonderful place Derian House really is.”
Buffalo 8 Distribution makes film distribution transparent and accessible, helping filmmakers reach global audiences through innovative marketing strategies and direct output deals with streaming platforms, networks, and international partners. Based in Santa Monica, Buffalo 8 is a full-service film and media company focused on production, post-production, finance, and distribution.
