Vindication Swim

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.

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 is an independent film made on a budget. Once this is borne in mind the film maker has produced a well made film telling a human story about a young woman who achieved amazing success despite being a young woman and in a male dominated sport. I found the story moving, entertaining and educational. I came to understand the struggle involved and courage required for channel swimming. The film captured the risks and the very basic support available at the time. The cinematography is very good, and the music and period atmosphere is excellent. Yes it is not a Hollywood block buster but is has charm, its own style and is well worth watching. It is well worth seeing.

This is a beautifully shot true biopic about the struggles of Mercedes Gleitze trying to prove, in a male dominate world, that she did in fact swim the English Channel.

It is shot in black and white but also in colour for all the water scenes. No green screens were used and all the swimming action is done by the actress herself. The film was written, filmed and directed by Elliot Hasler who remarkably has had no formal training in film making.

It is well worth a visit to a local cinema to see and will take you on an emotional roller coaster of a ride as you cheer on Mercedes to succeed seemingly joining the crowds of onlookers cheering her on near the end.

It just shows you a film doesn't have to be a large Hollywood block buster of a film to be just as enjoyable and Vindication Swim shows you just what the best of independent films can be. Don't miss it.

Excellent, moving story which has been captured in a way that highlighted the struggles that Mercedes had as a woman in a male dominated time.

Beautifully filmed which is even more remarkable when you find out it was written and filmed by such a young Director (Elliot Hasler) as an indie film with a limited budget. Despite this, the film stands up on its own and more than comparable to other 'swim' themed films made with Hollywood stars and multi-million pound budgets.

Having decided to go and see the film after watching a few of the cast and director interviewed on BBC breakfast, I thoroughly enjoyed it and the feel good factor I was left with. Would definitely recommend.