Film Reviews
STONE OF STONE - Downfall Productions
The story told in this charming film echoes the adventure undertaken to create it by the residents of Edale in the Peak District. As they emerged from the isolation of pandemic restrictions Edale villagers took on a collective creative project that took each individual and their community on a four year journey that resulted in a tender, funny film for our times.
Set in the fictitious village of Stone, every aspect of this project was done by people in Edale who proudly describe themselves as ‘non-professional but not unprofessional’. Written by Mark Wallington, Directed by Al Boyd, with music written and performed by Bella Hardy, it is entirely filmed and produced locally. That is an extraordinary feat for a village of less than 300 people.
The story follows the villagers who come together to pull their place and people out of decline through a daring caper that goes terribly wrong but succeeds in restoring local confidence for a positive future together. ‘Go on, you can do it’ is a bit of a theme as the characters encourage bravery in each other and discover forgotten strengths. Along the way at least two romances blossom, teens and parents gain new respect for one another, and the ambitions of insensitive investors are scuppered. It is a story with rich texture and hope for our times. If Edale can produce this lovely film, what could your local community achieve through collaboration?
Following the premier in a barn earlier this year, this was only the second public screening of the film which is showing again on Sunday 19 July at the Place Hotel 6-8:15pm and well worth the £10 ticket. Then it goes on a tour of local venues until the end of this year, and then who knows where it might go. Catch it in; Chinley 2 & 7 Aug, Bakewell 14 Aug, Glossop 23 Aug, Sheffield 3 Sept, Chapel-en-le-Frith 16 Sept, Tideswell 8 Oct, Hathersage 30 Oct, or Edale 20 November.
Jean Ball
