Vindication Swim: Diving into the Legacy of Mercedes Gleitze
Loca Mercedes Gleitze, the Trailblazing British Swimmer, on International Women’s Day.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, the much-anticipated biopic Vindication Swim is hitting cinemas across the UK on the 8th of March. The film dives into the extraordinary life of Mercedes Gleitze, who in 1927 became the first British woman to swim the English Channel. It 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 goes into into battle to retain her record and her legacy.
Young local talent
Elliot Hasler is an award winning filmaker and University of Exeter alumni both wrote and directed the film. Vindication Swim stars British-Irish actress Kirsten Callaghan in her debut role as Mercedes Gleitze. Kirsten 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).
Mercedes Gleitze, is a name that has been largely lost to history. She also became the first person to complete many of other incredible swims around the world, including the Straits of Gibraltar, the Dardanelles and distance between Robben Island and Cape Town. It is hoped that the new film about her life will reinvigorate her remarkable legacy. Factored into the release there will be Q&A screenings across the UK, including in Totnes Cinema.
Keep it in mind
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Vindication Swim serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit of a woman who dared to dream beyond the confines of her era. The film’s release on the 8th of March invites Totnes residents to join the nationwide audience. They will be commemorating International Women’s Day while paying homage to a local connection that shaped Gleitze’s remarkable legacy.
Making waves…
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a sports fan, or simply someone seeking inspiration, Vindication Swim promises a cinematic experience that celebrates not only the achievements of Mercedes Gleitze, but also the collective strength and determination of women who have left an indelible mark on our world.
Find more details and screenings at www.vindicationswimfilm.com or @vindicationswimfilm on social media.