A LOCAL filmmaker has said she had to pinch herself when she saw her film on the big screen for the first time.
Rebecca Sills is celebrating after finding out her project on the town’s mining past will be screened at Cineworld in Barnsley next month. The 25-year-old from Bolton-upon-Dearne will see her film – Regeneration – played at the cinema on March 11 at 11am.
Regeneration tells the story of how the mining industry came to an end. It also discusses the miners’ strike of 1984/1985. The film includes interviews, archive footage and what life is like now in the Dearne Valley.
Rebecca said: “I am very proud of this film and so grateful to Dan and Oli at Cineworld in Barnsley for this wonderful opportunity. My dad and I went to a test screening and seeing my film on the big screen in the cinema was one of those pinch yourself moments.
“The screening is free, so anyone who is interested in my short can attend. We hope to see many ex-miners and their families there for this amazing event.
“Thanks to everyone who helped with the making of this film, especially ex-miners like John Greaves and John Beard. I made the film as part of my MA in filmmaking and it helped me to achieve a first class honours degree.”
Her dad, 55-year-old Dean, added: “This is a very proud moment. As filmmakers we do everything ourselves, from my daughter directing Regeneration to myself narrating the film.
“The film is emotional at times, taking us all on a journey back to a lost world. I think many people will be moved by this film and not just people from mining communities.
“We are very proud of our Rebecca and what she’s achieved so far as a filmmaker.”
