Vindication Swim dives into the extraordinary life of Mercedes Gleitze, who in 1927 became the first British woman to swim the English Channel. The film depicts Mercedes’ upstream struggle in overcoming both the cold waters of the English Channel and the oppressive society of 1920s England. However, after a rival comes forward claiming to have accomplished the same feat, Mercedes is forced into battle to retain her record and her legacy.
Written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Elliott Hasler, Vindication Swim stars British-Irish actress Kirsten Callaghan in her debut role as Mercedes Gleitze, who trained for months in the English Channel before filming began. The film also stars John Locke (Darkest Hour, Poor Things, The Favourite) alongside James Wilby (Maurice, Gosford Park, Howards End) and Douglas Hodge (Joker, The Great, Black Mirror).
Greenpeace host the panel at Duke of York's on the anniversary of Mercedes Gleitze swim and will be discussing with the director, Elliot Hasler, his focus on Net Zero filmmaking and Relsah Films commitment to ESG (environmental, social & governance) values.
At Cameo Swimming Scotland and Scottish Olympic medallist Dan Wallace, who recently swum the English Channel, present both the screening and panel.
Green Screen is a community-led space to discuss the environmental issues raised in the films we show. Everyone is invited to continue the conversation after the film in the cinema's bar or cafe – enjoy a free tea or filter coffee when you bring a keep cup!
