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.
33 Reviews
A passion project
tjpieraccini8 March 2024
That the film exists at all is something of a miracle. Originally planned to take a few months, the shoot extended to three years, with the swimming footage alone going from three or four planned sessions to nearer thirty. Made on a miniscule budget, the production pulled through thanks to the dedication and passion of all involved, from writer/directer Elliott Hasler through the two principal cast members Kirsten Callaghan and John Locke, to the many extras, theatre groups, town councils and others who went above and beyond.
And was it worth the effort? Yes. Although the budget restrictions show in the tightness of a few of the shots, what does fill the screen is beautifully realised; major kudos to the production design team. Costumes, vehicles, sets - everything looks marvellously authentic. And if the sea-set stuff looks real, it was - they were out there in The English Channel, in a couple of small boats for hours on end, with no body doubles.
Mercedes Gleitze had a fascinating life, of which this is only a small part, but the narrow focus works, enabling the drama of the channel crossings and attendant disputes to be teased out in just the right amount of detail. Kirsten Callaghan and John Locke make an appealing if oddly-matched pair at the centre of it all, in a story about integrity and self-belief, and the end is unexpected - and unexpectedly moving. The conclusion shouldn't work but it does, partly thanks to Daniel Clive McCallum's excellent score, but also due to restrained acting on the part of the leads, and some excellent staging. I was really quite moved, both times I saw it.
And was it worth the effort? Yes. Although the budget restrictions show in the tightness of a few of the shots, what does fill the screen is beautifully realised; major kudos to the production design team. Costumes, vehicles, sets - everything looks marvellously authentic. And if the sea-set stuff looks real, it was - they were out there in The English Channel, in a couple of small boats for hours on end, with no body doubles.
Mercedes Gleitze had a fascinating life, of which this is only a small part, but the narrow focus works, enabling the drama of the channel crossings and attendant disputes to be teased out in just the right amount of detail. Kirsten Callaghan and John Locke make an appealing if oddly-matched pair at the centre of it all, in a story about integrity and self-belief, and the end is unexpected - and unexpectedly moving. The conclusion shouldn't work but it does, partly thanks to Daniel Clive McCallum's excellent score, but also due to restrained acting on the part of the leads, and some excellent staging. I was really quite moved, both times I saw it.
Lacked that cinematic punch. But still was passable entertainment
gricey_sandgrounder8 March 2024
I knew absolutely nothing of this story. But the synopsis intrigued me and I felt seeing it on International Women's Day felt right to check this out.
While there was nothing notably bad about it, it felt like a missed opportunity. The whole vibe felt more like a film made for television in every aspect. However, the content is interesting and you can feel the passion and drive the people involved are putting into this project.
If the film had more starpower in front of the camera and more capable minds behind it, this would be worth your time on the big screen.
I'd either find a documentary (if there is one) or wait until this is available to stream.
While there was nothing notably bad about it, it felt like a missed opportunity. The whole vibe felt more like a film made for television in every aspect. However, the content is interesting and you can feel the passion and drive the people involved are putting into this project.
If the film had more starpower in front of the camera and more capable minds behind it, this would be worth your time on the big screen.
I'd either find a documentary (if there is one) or wait until this is available to stream.
Excellent 'Feel Good' Moving Story
stevemusiol10 March 2024
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.
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.
Superb portrayal of a fascinating true story
adamashipton10 March 2024
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.
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.
Visual Triumph
custard_is_my_life10 March 2024
"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.
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.
Thought provoking and inspiring film
louisebaedehunter16 March 2024
Like most people I had never heard of Mercedes Gleitze and I was intrigued to watch her story come to life on the big screen.
I was not disappointed and it had me gripped from the beginning.
It is beautifully filmed. The young director and writer Elliott Hasler captured the mood and the era perfectly.
The main characters Mercedes Gleitze and Harold Best were portrayed convincingly by the actors Kirsten Callaghan and John Locke. Kirsten was particularly impressive in the swimming scenes, which must have been incredibly challenging!
I'm looking forward to see more films from Elliott Hasler in the future!
I was not disappointed and it had me gripped from the beginning.
It is beautifully filmed. The young director and writer Elliott Hasler captured the mood and the era perfectly.
The main characters Mercedes Gleitze and Harold Best were portrayed convincingly by the actors Kirsten Callaghan and John Locke. Kirsten was particularly impressive in the swimming scenes, which must have been incredibly challenging!
I'm looking forward to see more films from Elliott Hasler in the future!
Inspiring Beautifully shot film
jenny_howe16 March 2024
Being a channel swimmer myself (relay only) I found this a fascinating watch. The challenges of the channel are captured perfectly in the film, I almost felt sea sick at one point, it was so realistic. I felt for the rower, never mind Mercedes. The film clearly portrayed how driven Mercedes was to overcome the prejudice's of the time, being a working class female of German heritage, and this was eloquently emphasised by the sound effects. The film tenderly told the story of Mercedes incredible achievements and what drove her to them. The film makers are to be commended in their portrayal of this period piece, which considering it's a low budget film was extremely good. Go and see it!
A wonderful authentic film
valtcb12 March 2024
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.
Val Kelsall
Very apt to be making its first showing on International Women's day.
Great story and beautiful cinematography
ginafay-0260015 March 2024
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.
True life tale of courageous woman
bkkkg10 March 2024
So enjoyed Vindication Swim- the true life tale of Mercedes Gleitz, a courageous young woman who had to work so hard to be recognised as the first British female to swim the channel . The young writer / director has captured the spirit of this early 1900s era with a combination of black and white/ colour atmospheric cinematography. Costumes, vehicles and buildings are accurately " of the time" .The scenes set at sea show the harsh conditions experienced by both the swimmer herself and the support team ( no sat nav and motors)! This young writer/ director Elliott Hasler shows great promise. Well worth a watch.
Dramatic and heartfelt
jennifereccles-5177710 March 2024
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.
Impressive and informative
nsscpt23 March 2024
Vindication swim, is a smartly shot and captivating film. The way this low budget film manages to draw you in to the life of Mercedes and teaches you about this figure lost to time is impressive alone. Let alone the lengths the cast went through especially the lead who would spend the whole day in the cold English Channel in a 100 year old swim suit to get some of the shots used in this film.
Additionally the use of colour and black and white scenes to portray different emotions of Mercedes is very well done throughout the movie.
Would highly recommend watching this while it's still on in cinemas and supporting an up and coming director and cast. Excited to see what they can accomplish in the future.
Additionally the use of colour and black and white scenes to portray different emotions of Mercedes is very well done throughout the movie.
Would highly recommend watching this while it's still on in cinemas and supporting an up and coming director and cast. Excited to see what they can accomplish in the future.
Compelling film documenting a courageous lady
martinclifton10 March 2024
Mercedes Gleitze was an unassuming ordinary lady who had this great passion and love of the ocean. This film beautifully captures the essence of her love for swimming despite strong opposition and discouragement from most including the Amateur Swimming Association. The cinematography creatively captures the difficulties she had at sea given the obvious challenges but also makes you feel as if you were there with her. The period scenes were well received with a true sense of the correct era , again beautifully filmed. I sense this film has been creatively put together with a large helping of attention to detail. Definitely one to watch, and a huge credit to a director that is so young.
Beautiful Film
kathryne-3485910 March 2024
I loved this movie. It was beautifully filmed the cinematography was superb..It told the story of a very courageous woman and her struggle to achieve her dream of being the first woman to swim the English Channel. The Scenes in sea were especially good identifying her challenges against the cold water and currents ,you almost felt you were there with her. The attention to detail of the 1920s was wonderful with the costumes and the old cars. I loved the characters Mercedes Gleitze played by the beautiful Kirsten Callaghan and her grumpy coach Harold played by John Locke,,they portrayed their characters very well.
It was refreshing to watch a story that had previously seemed forgotten. I would highly recommend this film.
It was refreshing to watch a story that had previously seemed forgotten. I would highly recommend this film.
British History Brought To Life!
oliver34225 March 2024
Vindication Swim immerses viewers in the remarkable journey of a woman defying the odds to conquer the daunting English Channel. Through stunning cinematography and a compelling lead performance, audiences are transported into the heart of this historic feat, witnessing firsthand the raw emotion and unwavering determination required to achieve such a monumental goal. The film serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's capacity for resilience and courage, inspiring viewers to chase their own dreams against all odds. With its captivating narrative and breathtaking visuals, Vindication Swim is an unforgettable tribute to the indomitable power of the human spirit.
An emotional rollercoaster of a film, beautifully shot
jtbatstone17 March 2024
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.
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.
Brilliant feel good film
tobymussett26 March 2024
Elliot hasler delivers a brilliant biopic of the under-recognised but engaging story of the first woman to swim the channel. Despite a limited budget the screenplay remains visually superb. This is doubly impressive as the actors and director provide a real experience of the struggle of swimming the channel by braving the waters of the south coast. The additional decision to film in colour and black and white blends very well and delivers an authentic feel. The film has won multiple awards so far and is definitely one to watch. A very promising start for such a young director and I can't wait to see what he comes up with next.
A moving portrayal of Mercedes forgotten story
thefairytalefair25 March 2024
I had never heard of Mercedes story before this film and found learning of her story and achievements through this film very moving. The film is beautifully shot and it was so nice to see the Sussex coast and some of the original locations Mercedes trained and swam at featured. John Locke did a superb job as supporting actor as Mercedes swimming coach and Kirsten Callaghan is for sure a talent we'll see a lot more of in the future. I went to see this on International Women's Day which was very fitting for the story being told. I thought the scenes at sea being shot from in the water really highlighted Mercedes courageous efforts and what she had to endure to achieve her swim.
Incredible indie about an amazing woman!
kelly-8513015 March 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this moving indie having caught it at my local cinema on International Women's Day. The story of that of incredible sporting icon, Mercedes Gleitze, whose name was sadly lost to history until this film. The camera work is very impressive for an independent film and really immersed me in the English Channel alongside the characters. These too are worthy of note, portrayed exceptionally well by Kirsten Callaghan (who I believe is making her film debut here - so all the more impressive) and John Locke. Victoria Summer is also great as the villain, but my one critique is that I would have liked to have seen more of her. The highlight of the film is undoubtedly the three Channel sequences, which are absolutely mesmerising, exciting and moving. The finale is a particularly standout moment and had me moved almost to tears. Callaghan's performance here, mixed with the wonderful cinematographer made for something truly special! All in all, I would whole heartedly recommend this gem of the film.
A brilliant and entertaining film of a remarkable woman
trsayers11 March 2024
Wow. What an enthralling film from the word go. Had me wrapped in the story from the off and the attention to detail for the architecture and settings for the era was amazing. The ocean clips were chilling. Thank you for bringing Mercedes story to us. A remarkable story that covered not just Mercedes' story but told of woman's struggles and misogyny back in the day. Her strive to prove her critics and to herself beyond all difficulties and weather / tide made one feel quite humble to watch. A true triumph of a film and story telling. Kirsten and Elliott its a wonde4ful film of which you must feel very proud.
Beautifully filmed, well depicted inspirational true story
sedsimons12 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
On so many levels a worthy and beautiful film. The true story of Mercedes Gleitze, the first British woman to swim the English Channel in 1927, this captured her emotional journey against the obstacles of being an unmarried woman of German heritage in the 1920s. Elliott Hasler has written and directed a story that weaves through the timeline, on land and in the sea, with beautiful atmospheric use of monochrome and colour. The acting performances by John Locke and Victoria Summer are strong and captured often in close up framing, but Kirsten Callaghan delivers magnificently capturing her battles with her inner demons facing the opposition from the establishment and the challenges of actually doing the sea swimming herself. It is a truly memorable film all the more impressive made on such a small budget by such a young director. Expect to see much more from Elliott and Kirsten in the future.
Q&A with director
tulashorto13 April 2024
This film was shown at the New Park Cinema in Chichester with near to full audience (around 96 out of 100 seats) and it did not disappoint. It was in mainly black and white with some colour scenes speckled throughout. The cast were fabulous and I am a stickler for a true story which this is. Elliot Hasler and his dad Dave answered many questions after the film which made this viewing all the more special. I know there will be critics who knock it but for me I thoroughly enjoyed it. Well done Elliot. We look forward to seeing your next film at New Park.
PS. I was handed a bag which I now carry my seat cushion in. A lovely little memory. Thank you.
PS. I was handed a bag which I now carry my seat cushion in. A lovely little memory. Thank you.
Powerful, authentic, beautiful cinematography
andikelly-1432115 March 2024
I loved this film. An amazing story. Shot in a timecapsule transported me back, l wondered what my grandmother thought of a woman swimming the Channel when she was alive. I felt like I was in the sea totally sharing the goal of swimming, with the calm determined struggle. Ever onwards. This is a brilliant film to inspire perseverance.
I particularly enjoyed the authentication in the settings, the costume, the sea scape and so many beautiful old boats. The swimming googles were a real treat.
The actors were interesting, knarly and captivating. This is a grown up film that l think will stay with me for ever.
I particularly enjoyed the authentication in the settings, the costume, the sea scape and so many beautiful old boats. The swimming googles were a real treat.
The actors were interesting, knarly and captivating. This is a grown up film that l think will stay with me for ever.
A thoroughly enjoyable biopic
cameronmillard-6822518 March 2024
This is a fantastically well directed movie. Mercedes Glietze is one of those little known heroines of the early 20th Century and this film certainly does her story justice in a very captivating way. The cinematography, in particular the shots from the English Channel, is really second to none.
Given the incredibly high standard of the film it is hard to believe that it was produced on a budget just a fraction of something coming out of Hollywood, and from a director who is just 23 years old.
Thoroughly recommend taking the time to watch this movie, as Mercedes Glietze's story is bound to capture anyones imagination.
Given the incredibly high standard of the film it is hard to believe that it was produced on a budget just a fraction of something coming out of Hollywood, and from a director who is just 23 years old.
Thoroughly recommend taking the time to watch this movie, as Mercedes Glietze's story is bound to capture anyones imagination.
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