Paper Vision Films is celebrating the UK Premiere of their groundbreaking documentary, Wild Water.
This much-anticipated film, created by filmmakers Ben Davis and Pete Jenkinson, is set to premiere at the Kendal Mountain Festival, November 16.
The film already had a strong international presence with its world premiere at The Toronto Documentary Feature & Short Film Festival 2023.
It went on to become a semi-finalist at the esteemed Hawaii International Film Awards in August.
The film's compelling narrative and outstanding cinematic quality engaged global audience’s attention.
Wild Water captures the fascinating journey of the cold water swimming community at Gaddings Dam, West Yorkshire.
The filmmakers spent 16 months following this community as they embraced the invigorating solitude of open-water swimming.
The wild swimmers use the 'restorative powers' of cold water to reconnect with their mental health, identity and the natural environment.
Regulars brave all weather conditions to make the 20-minute trek up a broken footpath, drawn by the ever-changing beauty of the landscape.
But the film also showcases more than just the swimming culture.
It brings to light the vibrant ecosystem that revolves around Gaddings Dam, a reservoir hidden in the moors, 780 feet above sea level.
Everyone from volunteers maintaining the footpaths in all weathers, pub landlords struggling with car park problems, and the local farmer whose cattle need rescuing make an appearance.
There is also the Gaddings Dam Preservation Society and the January Daily Dippers.
The documentary will be released in partnership with Crisis, the national charity for people experiencing homelessness.
The charity's annual Crisis Icebreaker Challenge is held every winter across the UK.
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