Vindication Swim

"Vindication Swim" stands as a testament to the remarkable talent of its young director Elliott Hasler in capturing the historic journey of British long-distance swimmer Mercedes Gleitze across the English Channel. Directed with precision and authenticity, the film immerses viewers in the challenges and triumphs of Gleitze's daring quest.

Set against the backdrop of the 1920s, the film captures the spirit of adventure and determination as Gleitze embarks on her ambitious swim. Through breathtaking cinematography and intense swimming sequences, viewers experience the physical and emotional hurdles she faces, culminating in a triumphant crossing of the Channel.

The film's focus on Gleitze's personal struggles and triumphs adds depth to her character, portraying her as a resilient and inspiring figure who defied expectations. Her interactions with supporters and skeptics alike highlight the societal barriers she faced, making her achievement all the more meaningful.

"Vindication Swim" is not only a testament to Gleitze's remarkable journey but also a showcase of the young director's talent in bringing this inspiring story to life. It's a captivating film that will leave audiences inspired and uplifted, showcasing Gleitze's indomitable spirit and the limitless possibilities of the human body and mind.

Bravo.

What a great film this is about an inspirational true story that seems lost to time. I had never heard of Mercedes Gleitze before, but the film does a great job of bringing you on the journey of really understanding all the challenges she faced and the emotional rollercoaster she went on. Not only did she have to deal with the actual task of swimming the channel, but to do that as a woman at that time makes it all the more impressive.

I loved the way it was shot, the very clever use of black and white scenes mixed with colour scenes when she was in the water which gives the impression she was truly free in the open waters, away from her normal life on land.

A really entertaining, cleverly written film about an amazing woman, well worth a watch.

This independent film tells an important story in a way that draws you in and keeps you hooked. I hadn't heard of Mercedes Gleitze before seeing the film, her story is so interesting and it's great that the film brings it to the public eye. Great rivalry with the other swimmer, and a real idea of how hard it must have been to do that swim. The swimming scenes are incredible, the actor doing them must be brave! Beautiful setting and costumes too, really evocative. The fact it has such a young writer and director makes this even more impressive. It's a great film and I'm excited to see what Elliot does next.

I really enjoyed this film, having never heard of Mercedes before I was captivated by her story. The cinematography was so clever that I had the feeling of being in the water with Mercedes and was wiling her forward with every stroke. By chance I saw the interview with the director and actors on BBC breakfast news. I was very impressed with the young director and am sure we will hear more of him. I will definitely look out for any future films from him. It was also interesting to understand the amount of time the actor who plays Mercedes had to spend in the water and her stamina to be able to do this.

A wonderful authentic low budget film, depicting the story of Mercedes Gleitze, the first woman to swim the channel. So courageously and authentically played by Kirsten Gallaghan, in such difficult conditions of the Channel, totally without stand-ins. Stunts, or computer graphics, often heart stopping, Written by Elliot and Kirsten and produced by Elliot Hasler, this young film maker, using local Sussex locations and cast, Elliot is one to watch, I'm sure he will have his 'Red Carpet' moment in the not too distant future. A good watch.

Val Kelsall

Very apt to be making its first showing on International Women's day.