The Passing Shadow in Flight
A record-breaking animal lives amongst many of us in our towns and cities, often invisible to passers-by below.
The Passing Shadow in Flight is a film from the perspective of a world record breaker who looks down on our lives and reflects on adapting to and hunting in our busy, built-up environment.
The film is also available with Audio Description and Closed Captions.
Watch the Trailer
Inspiration
Before I started working in nature conservation, I was completely unaware of just how many different species of wildlife lived in towns and cities — and how amazing they all are.
I’ve always had an interest in the natural world, and as a child, I collected all kinds of trinkets. I’m intrigued by nature in our urban environments and how it has had to adapt to humans and our impact.
With this film, I wanted to share my appreciation and passion for the life that we overlook existing around our buildings, grounds, and skies. I hope that it inspires curiosity and empathy for our wildlife in others.
Collaborators
Benjamin Wigley mentored me in using the 16mm Bolex cine camera and hand-processing the film in his darkroom.
Sarah Butcher from The Space helped me shape the story, the script, and the final film, and provided support on many other aspects along the way.
Franky Van Dorst provided the voiceover.
The music was by my brother, Dominique James, who just so happened to release a few songs whilst I was editing the piece, one of which fit perfectly with the film's crescendo.
Audio Description by SoundScribe and captions by Screen Language.
James Holcombe from Erewhon Film digitised the film stock.
Supported By
Part of Creative Black Country and The Space’s Black Country Digital Firsts commissioning strand
Get In Touch
Please get in touch for more information about the film, my work, or collaboration opportunities on future projects.