MMA documentary and Happy Valleys

I thought it was about time to finally get my fourth year uni film online. It is a film on the world of mixed martial arts/ cage fighting in Scotland.I chose to make a documentary on this topic because it is sport I'm in to and I knew the owner of The Griphouse gym pretty well. Basically it was easy and convenient enough for me to have plenty of other stuff on the go and still pass my course. I met the Griphouse owner, Guy Ramsay, while filming a segment for the Attica documentary. While there I saw the potential for a possible film and asked Guy if he was interested. I also offered to film a Muay Thai show he was promoting. I liked Guy instantly, basically because he came across as intelligent and could explain the role of combat sports in society. I knew he'd have to be a large part in the film and in my opinion he's the best thing about it.

The film is the first time I've ever presented on camera. I think it shows especially early on. What do you expect from someone who is really camera shy? I've never liked being the center of attention hence why in the past I've gravitated towards being behind the camera. It's a hold over from being very shy as a child which is something that lessens with age but I think there'll always be a wee bit of it in there. For me making this films was the first step in over coming camera shyness. In that regard I think it worked. By the end of filming I was less self conscious and felt more relaxed. Hopefully I will be better in my next time around. Click below if you want to witness and have a laugh at my complete unfitness.



For the next couple of weeks I am working on a corporate video for Healthy Valleys http://www.healthyvalleys.org.uk. They are a charity in rural South Lanarkshire trying to improve the physical and metal health of people who need help. I've already filmed several interviews with some of their clients and have also shot a fair bit of activity footage. This is another great opportunity and is a different kind of video than what I'm used to. The biggest challenge is the tight deadline. It has to be done in 2 weeks. Difficult but do-able.

Attica Rage Documentary Announced

It has recently been announced by the band Attica Rage that I will be filming a documentary on them. For the past few months I have been busy filming the band and will be continuing with them for the next 12 months. Here is what the band had to say in their official newsletter.

"Production is underway for a feature-length Attica Rage documentary and live concert film which will be filmed over the next 12 months, with a possible DVD release for Christmas 2010. UWS film student Colin Wood approached the band in summer and has been in filming our album pre-production rehearsals over the last couple of months. He'll be capturing footage of the album recording studio sessions and following us on tour throughout next year, starting off with next week's Cathouse headliner and Hard Rock Hell weekend!

It's all early days still, but we'll keep you posted as things develop."

Christmas 2010, yikes, no pressure then.