Film to show a different side of life in the resort

Blackpool: Through the Eyes of Others aims to challenge negative stereotypes about the town by highlighting the resort’s artistic entrepeneurs.

Plans to make the documentary were announced in 2014 by local events co-ordinator Mark ‘Chinny’ Davis, 47, and a webpage set up to raise money towards it brought in more than £7,500 from 181 backers in just 56 days.

Now, despite some initial delays, Mark has announced that people can look forward to the premiere of the short promotional film on July 31 next year.

Former Warbreck High School student Mark, who now lives in London but visits Blackpool every two weeks to see his two sons, said: “The motivation behind the project is basically just being sick to death of the stereotypical image Blackpool gets shown in the media.

“There is a huge wealth of artistic talent and culture in the town that gets over looked and we aimed to show this to a wider, edgier audience.”

He added: “We want to highlight that there is many more attractions within the town and a vibrant artistic scene that looks like it’s continuously going from strength to strength.

“We have galleries and theatre, festivals and urban art shows, contemporary dance and many more pop up independent attractions that 
just don’t get enough coverage.

“The fact is we are a seaside town and you know what’s here already as it’s been here for years, but we want to try and expand your view and perhaps your stay here to enjoy much more than you bargained for.”

Blackpool: Through the Eyes of Others is produced by Mark along with film-maker and web designer Danny Gomez, who won The Guardian’s National Short Film award in 2014 under the name Void Matter.

It will feature work from artist David Healy (Infected By Design), photographers Dawn Mander and Jill Reidy, and Bootleg Social on Topping Street. People will be able to watch the promotional film by searching the title ‘Blackpool: Through the Eyes of Others’ on www.youtube.com from July 31 onwards.