Events in 2012
5th December - Christmas Party
Peter Hartingdon, David Smith, Peter Russell
and Mabel Mackman
On Wednesday 5th December Mercury Movie Makers were entertained by "The Two Peters"(Peter Hartingdon and Peter Russell) It was the night of our Christmas Party and they had concocted entertainment and festivity between them. They called out Bob Rowley who entered into the spirit of the evening and read out normal Christmas carol verses. Every few words he was challenged by the comic duo because they could read something non-PC into the words.It had to be seen and heard to get the point but was very amusing. Peter Russell used his video camera to film various members reading out some Hispanic sentences,we will be shown the result at a later date. We had a seasonal quiz as well,both men worked hard. But on the catering front Mabel Mackman again excelled with a lavish spread of food during the interval,she was helped by other lady members. Eventually the evening came to an end and we were all wished a Merry Christmas.
We shall meet again on January 2nd 2013 for our annual general meeting.
We shall meet again on January 2nd 2013 for our annual general meeting.
28th November - Mike Breeze
On Wednesday at Mercury Movie Makers we welcomed a familiar face. Mike Breeze a film maker from the Burnley club came to give us a show. Mike is a past member of Mercury, the films he presented were all new to us and very entertaining. One of his interests is in the waterways system and he showed the effects of a drought a few months ago which left of flight of locks in Wigan unusable.
We were then transported to the town of Dartford in Kent where out of town shopping has resulted in a lot of empty shops.
Nearer to home was a Bingley school with good sports facilities where we saw basket ball skills being taught. Another schools venture took us into Lancashire to a dry ski slope where children were using snowboards. A very relaxed visit by HRH Prince Charles to Burnley got some great close up shots. It showed the free and easy atmosphere and of course good weather.
Mike then changed the venue to Canada and Niagara Falls where he managed to get some fresh view points and told us interesting facts. Still in Canada he took a long rail journey in considerable comfort between Vancouver and Toronto and whilst in the same hemisphere showed us a preserved village in Nova Scotia called Sherbrook. Switching to Bradford he showed us some young people known as "free runners" who bounded over street furniture then scaled walls. They also jumped great distances and tumbled head over heels in mid air. It was all very athletic. As Mike is interested in conservation one of his films showed the Winter Gardens building in Morecambe benefiting from a slow restoration by enthusiasts. Other films covered Botswana and its scenery. whilst a different film showed us the journey by rail to the north of Norway. A very diverse mixture of films but a credit to Mike and obviously appreciated by Mercury. Chairman Roy Vickers gave a vote of thanks.
We were then transported to the town of Dartford in Kent where out of town shopping has resulted in a lot of empty shops.
Nearer to home was a Bingley school with good sports facilities where we saw basket ball skills being taught. Another schools venture took us into Lancashire to a dry ski slope where children were using snowboards. A very relaxed visit by HRH Prince Charles to Burnley got some great close up shots. It showed the free and easy atmosphere and of course good weather.
Mike then changed the venue to Canada and Niagara Falls where he managed to get some fresh view points and told us interesting facts. Still in Canada he took a long rail journey in considerable comfort between Vancouver and Toronto and whilst in the same hemisphere showed us a preserved village in Nova Scotia called Sherbrook. Switching to Bradford he showed us some young people known as "free runners" who bounded over street furniture then scaled walls. They also jumped great distances and tumbled head over heels in mid air. It was all very athletic. As Mike is interested in conservation one of his films showed the Winter Gardens building in Morecambe benefiting from a slow restoration by enthusiasts. Other films covered Botswana and its scenery. whilst a different film showed us the journey by rail to the north of Norway. A very diverse mixture of films but a credit to Mike and obviously appreciated by Mercury. Chairman Roy Vickers gave a vote of thanks.
21st November - Club Films
On Wednesday Mercury Movies members met yet again to see a film première.
A few weeks ago a panel game was enacted before an audience and it was on the lines of "Could it be True?"
Here ,by pre-arrangement four members became the panel and David Smith became the chairman. During the process each panel member read out an unlikely happening or two in their own life. As it turned out a great number of the stories were quite true, yes, the terrified horse and rider were actually confronted with a rattle snake! The panel member speaking at the time was questioned and at the end showed a "Truth" or a "Lie" card as appropriate. Now as we are a camcorder club all this was recorded by five cameramen supported by lighting specialists, sound experts and a director. The evening went very well and now for the first time we saw the edited version film director Roy Vickers had taking the editing in hand.
As we saw the film we realised what a good job had been done by all concerned and we had all learnt a good deal.
During the evening we saw some other films such as the lottery based comedy "Your Numbers Up" Nostalgia was catered for as we saw our last evening at our previous premises back in 2007.
A club barbecue was also featured on video. Another club venture was "trailered" Some members had spoken for five minutes on an aspect of their lives.This had been filmed and we were shown a section of this (more to look forward to).
A few weeks ago a panel game was enacted before an audience and it was on the lines of "Could it be True?"
Here ,by pre-arrangement four members became the panel and David Smith became the chairman. During the process each panel member read out an unlikely happening or two in their own life. As it turned out a great number of the stories were quite true, yes, the terrified horse and rider were actually confronted with a rattle snake! The panel member speaking at the time was questioned and at the end showed a "Truth" or a "Lie" card as appropriate. Now as we are a camcorder club all this was recorded by five cameramen supported by lighting specialists, sound experts and a director. The evening went very well and now for the first time we saw the edited version film director Roy Vickers had taking the editing in hand.
As we saw the film we realised what a good job had been done by all concerned and we had all learnt a good deal.
During the evening we saw some other films such as the lottery based comedy "Your Numbers Up" Nostalgia was catered for as we saw our last evening at our previous premises back in 2007.
A club barbecue was also featured on video. Another club venture was "trailered" Some members had spoken for five minutes on an aspect of their lives.This had been filmed and we were shown a section of this (more to look forward to).
14th November - Ask the Panel
Last Wednesday Mercury Movie Makers had a Question and Answer forum that covered aspects of film making.
Firsly we welcomed visitor Phil Burton, a film maker from Bradford who, during the evening, made some useful contributions to our forum. Bob Rudd, the chairman, started the evening by introducing the topic of "Point of View" filming and Diagetic and non-diagetic sound. The members were asked what were the five C's of Cinematography to which we got an accurate response. Camera Angles, Continuity, Cutting Close-ups and Composition. Comments were made by the audience but the questions from the audience started off on many topics. Firstly, when to use cut away shots and can you have too many? This was answered in great detail by Roy Vickers and the rest of the audience added their useful comments. A question about DVDs and what the difference was between DVD-R and DVD+R. Why some DVDs play OK and others do not play in certain DVD machines. We then had a question on the use of the mobile phone, SLR cameras and Tablet computers to take video. Would they replace the Video Camcorder? We debated this at length. A lot of time was taken up about equipment but underlying this was, that the best films are made by members who are skilled in the art of Cinematography, the five Cs as discussed at the beginning of the meeting. A question about judging was debated and there are no guidelines in judging and it was left to the individuals method. It is very difficult to find judges and they have varied skills.
We need more people to be able to give a useful evaluation of each film shown and judge accordingly. To find out the answers to the topics discussed and more join Mercury Movie Makers one Wednesday evening and find out for yourself.
Firsly we welcomed visitor Phil Burton, a film maker from Bradford who, during the evening, made some useful contributions to our forum. Bob Rudd, the chairman, started the evening by introducing the topic of "Point of View" filming and Diagetic and non-diagetic sound. The members were asked what were the five C's of Cinematography to which we got an accurate response. Camera Angles, Continuity, Cutting Close-ups and Composition. Comments were made by the audience but the questions from the audience started off on many topics. Firstly, when to use cut away shots and can you have too many? This was answered in great detail by Roy Vickers and the rest of the audience added their useful comments. A question about DVDs and what the difference was between DVD-R and DVD+R. Why some DVDs play OK and others do not play in certain DVD machines. We then had a question on the use of the mobile phone, SLR cameras and Tablet computers to take video. Would they replace the Video Camcorder? We debated this at length. A lot of time was taken up about equipment but underlying this was, that the best films are made by members who are skilled in the art of Cinematography, the five Cs as discussed at the beginning of the meeting. A question about judging was debated and there are no guidelines in judging and it was left to the individuals method. It is very difficult to find judges and they have varied skills.
We need more people to be able to give a useful evaluation of each film shown and judge accordingly. To find out the answers to the topics discussed and more join Mercury Movie Makers one Wednesday evening and find out for yourself.
7th November - Ladies evening
On Wednesday evening it was Ladies Night at Mercury Movie Makers. Although the filmed material was produced by the Ladies one gentleman was involved and that was David Smith our versatile secretary. He set the evening going with some prestidigitation or in other words conjuring tricks. He made a dice move between two boxes. He performed various card tricks and used bamboo rods with strings attached to perform unexplained antics. His Chinese washing machine worked magic with coloured socks and he certainly entertained us.A magic guillotine caused some breathless moments.
Later a quiz on Yorkshire town names took place.
We then had a video which showed Iceland. Another film took place in a show garden where plant pots were formed into puppets.
There were also various other themes given the video treatment.
Mabel and her helpers had assembled a substantial supper for the members who agreed that this had been a greatly enjoyable evening.
Later a quiz on Yorkshire town names took place.
We then had a video which showed Iceland. Another film took place in a show garden where plant pots were formed into puppets.
There were also various other themes given the video treatment.
Mabel and her helpers had assembled a substantial supper for the members who agreed that this had been a greatly enjoyable evening.
31st October - Acting Workshop
At their most recent meeting, Mercury Movie Makers listened to Bob Rowley, an amateur thespian, as he gave members a workshop about acting. Incidentally Bob is also a member and accomplished film maker.
This session covered the art of script reading, impromptu dialogue, facial expression and movement.
All members who attended took part in scenes to demonstrate these aspects.
We are film makers and from time to time we are called in front of the camera to act out some scenario.
Practical evenings such as this are very valuable to learn the art of film making.
I am sure we all benefited from the excellent instruction from Bob and hopefully this will reflect in the future movies the club will be making. Finally it was decided to have an evening of impromptu filming to take these lessons further.
This session covered the art of script reading, impromptu dialogue, facial expression and movement.
All members who attended took part in scenes to demonstrate these aspects.
We are film makers and from time to time we are called in front of the camera to act out some scenario.
Practical evenings such as this are very valuable to learn the art of film making.
I am sure we all benefited from the excellent instruction from Bob and hopefully this will reflect in the future movies the club will be making. Finally it was decided to have an evening of impromptu filming to take these lessons further.
24th October - The Gledhill Trophy and One Minute Competitions
At Mercury Movies it is that time of year when two competitions arrive at once.
On Wednesday we welcomed Alan Vanston from Bradford as our judge. His job was to give his verdict on films entered for the Gledhill Trophy and films taking part in the One Minute Film competition.
The response from the members was magnificent. We had nine entries fro the first competition and another nine for the One Minute, well done all film makers. Locations varied from African safari to Canada. Bingley's 5 Rise locks and Japanese gardens in Horsforth were also included. A world famous organist entertained us whilst a craftsman slater showed us the tricks of his trade.
Scenic Harrogate, the English lake district and exotic Yangtze River were all included.
In the One Minute category we rapidly saw a Storm, a speeded up bus ride ; Blossoms in Harrogate gave way to Venetian gondolas.
Being Lost contrasted with a tin of beans whilst a deceased dog caused a smile.
Winners in the Gledhill Trophy were Roy and Jean Vickers with "Slating with Yorkshire Greys" and the runners up were George and Barbara Thomson with "Birthday at Sweetwaters".
In the One Minute contest Martin Sunderland with "M'Dog" was declared winner whilst John Orrell and Mick Varley became runners up with "Lost".
Great thanks go to Alan our judge
On Wednesday we welcomed Alan Vanston from Bradford as our judge. His job was to give his verdict on films entered for the Gledhill Trophy and films taking part in the One Minute Film competition.
The response from the members was magnificent. We had nine entries fro the first competition and another nine for the One Minute, well done all film makers. Locations varied from African safari to Canada. Bingley's 5 Rise locks and Japanese gardens in Horsforth were also included. A world famous organist entertained us whilst a craftsman slater showed us the tricks of his trade.
Scenic Harrogate, the English lake district and exotic Yangtze River were all included.
In the One Minute category we rapidly saw a Storm, a speeded up bus ride ; Blossoms in Harrogate gave way to Venetian gondolas.
Being Lost contrasted with a tin of beans whilst a deceased dog caused a smile.
Winners in the Gledhill Trophy were Roy and Jean Vickers with "Slating with Yorkshire Greys" and the runners up were George and Barbara Thomson with "Birthday at Sweetwaters".
In the One Minute contest Martin Sunderland with "M'Dog" was declared winner whilst John Orrell and Mick Varley became runners up with "Lost".
Great thanks go to Alan our judge
Jean & Roy Vickers collect the Gledhill trophy from Alan Vanston
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Martin Sunderland collects the "One Minute" trophy from Alan Vanston
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17th October - "Could it be true? "
On Wednesday 17th October a panel game called Could it be true?. It consisted of a chairman and 4 contestants, each making a statement and were quizzed by the other contestants to establish whether it was true or false. The chairman called time when enough questions had been asked and they then declared true or lie by holding a card up. The originator of the statement then declared true or lie.
The contestant with the correct answer was awarded one point. This was filmed and will be edited for show at a future date.
The contestant with the correct answer was awarded one point. This was filmed and will be edited for show at a future date.
The cameramen and sound man get ready for the shoot.
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Director Roy Vickers and chairman David Smith
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The audience settle down for the show.
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26th September - Member's Films
At a member's film show on Wednesday Mercury Movie Makers were entertained by a wide mix of subjects. The first film was "Las Vegas" by Michael Varley, taken in 2000 it still looks fresh and well made and was well received.
A documentary called" Pets and Bets", a story of an owner of greyhounds and the life looking after the dogs, racing them and finding them a good home after their racing days. A film made by ITV in 2006 about the Mercury's cinema at Esholt with interviews with members and clips from films made by members. A story about a film maker and collector Ernest Jennings of Halifax, a keen Charlie Chaplin fan has created a cinema in his own house and a collection of old silent films. In this film the following films were featured, Charlie Chaplin in "Easy Street" and "Safety Last" by Harold Lloyd. This was followed by a film about Beamish,in the North East. There were a variety of exhibits shown, "Locomotion" in steam, a horse drawn bus, Various steam locomotives, interviews with curators of various shops and banks, plenty of activity and a good advertisement for the location. A holiday film about New Zealand followed. Finally a club film made about the fire service was shown, a Rob Wilton type comedy and that was followed, to much amusement, by the out takes. A thoroughly enjoyable evening, some films not seen before at Mercury Movie Makers.
A documentary called" Pets and Bets", a story of an owner of greyhounds and the life looking after the dogs, racing them and finding them a good home after their racing days. A film made by ITV in 2006 about the Mercury's cinema at Esholt with interviews with members and clips from films made by members. A story about a film maker and collector Ernest Jennings of Halifax, a keen Charlie Chaplin fan has created a cinema in his own house and a collection of old silent films. In this film the following films were featured, Charlie Chaplin in "Easy Street" and "Safety Last" by Harold Lloyd. This was followed by a film about Beamish,in the North East. There were a variety of exhibits shown, "Locomotion" in steam, a horse drawn bus, Various steam locomotives, interviews with curators of various shops and banks, plenty of activity and a good advertisement for the location. A holiday film about New Zealand followed. Finally a club film made about the fire service was shown, a Rob Wilton type comedy and that was followed, to much amusement, by the out takes. A thoroughly enjoyable evening, some films not seen before at Mercury Movie Makers.
19th September - President's Evening
Wednesday was a special evening at Mercury Movies. It was President's Evening and the current holder of that title, Peter Hartingdon showed us some special films. There was also a fine supper provided by Mabel Mackman and her willing helpers.
Peter started his programme with a well made film produced by a film crew consisting of Anthony Monaghan, David Myers and Peter.
This was about the testing of Jowett cars on a very exacting test route and it was obvious that the filming trio had encountered some atrocious weather in the Yorkshire Dales as some present day owners of Jowett vehicles retraced the test route.
Another film showed the number of hobbies and facilities available to retired persons in the Bradford district.
There were short comedy films as well and people enjoyed the well balanced show.
Then came the social side of the evening as people enjoyed the supper and a good chat.
Peter started his programme with a well made film produced by a film crew consisting of Anthony Monaghan, David Myers and Peter.
This was about the testing of Jowett cars on a very exacting test route and it was obvious that the filming trio had encountered some atrocious weather in the Yorkshire Dales as some present day owners of Jowett vehicles retraced the test route.
Another film showed the number of hobbies and facilities available to retired persons in the Bradford district.
There were short comedy films as well and people enjoyed the well balanced show.
Then came the social side of the evening as people enjoyed the supper and a good chat.
12th September - Syllabus for 2013
On Wednesday Mercury Movie Makers met to consider the Forthcoming Syllabus .The content of this depends to some extent on the input from the members. The members did us proud and gave several ideas which we shall be putting into the programme.
Prospective members can be assured that this friendly club always provides an interesting evening and members both old an new generally learn something new about creative camcorder use. In other words,"How to Create Films Your Friends and Family Will Be Pleased to Watch"
Prospective members can be assured that this friendly club always provides an interesting evening and members both old an new generally learn something new about creative camcorder use. In other words,"How to Create Films Your Friends and Family Will Be Pleased to Watch"
5th September - History on your Doorstep
On Wednesday the annual "History on Your Doorstep"series of films was again called for and members with eight examples of local
history or events films.
Our esteemed syllabus secretary volunteered to project for the evening, Dudley Wilcock was chairman and so we proceeded with the first film.This was both historical and gave information about Hampsthwaite in North Yorkshire. Even more poignant was the family connection with the filmmaker, great grand dads and various aunties were highlighted.This was provided by Maurice Wray
Health and Safety legislation reared its head. The famous maypole at Barwick -in- Elmet normally installed by hundreds of strong people with simple ropes and restraining ladders has since the late nineties had to be raised by hydraulic machinery.
Jim Hird captured the last all manual installation of all time. In the past we have seen the ceremony on another excellent film. This last filming opportunity was quite dramatic.
The local National Trust property of East Riddlesden Hall was the next object to be filmed and this historic film gave us all the relevant dates and illustrious owners who occupied the place.This was made by Mick Varley and John Orrell.
A message from the past was shown in a foundry safety film.The Bingley foundry, (now closed) increased its safety at work record by the production of this film edited by Franc Medved. The danger from hot metals could not be overstressed, the message was to always wear the correct protective clothing. On the natural history theme was a film from the Hird household again, called intriguingly; "36 Yards"
David Myers provided a historical record of the bells and bell ringers at Guiseley Anglican Church. Much information was given on the bells themselves and we had a graphic illustration of how a bell is rung and this will be a valuable historic reminder to the bell ringing team. Sadly time ran out before we had time to see a Midland railway film but this will shown at a future date.
history or events films.
Our esteemed syllabus secretary volunteered to project for the evening, Dudley Wilcock was chairman and so we proceeded with the first film.This was both historical and gave information about Hampsthwaite in North Yorkshire. Even more poignant was the family connection with the filmmaker, great grand dads and various aunties were highlighted.This was provided by Maurice Wray
Health and Safety legislation reared its head. The famous maypole at Barwick -in- Elmet normally installed by hundreds of strong people with simple ropes and restraining ladders has since the late nineties had to be raised by hydraulic machinery.
Jim Hird captured the last all manual installation of all time. In the past we have seen the ceremony on another excellent film. This last filming opportunity was quite dramatic.
The local National Trust property of East Riddlesden Hall was the next object to be filmed and this historic film gave us all the relevant dates and illustrious owners who occupied the place.This was made by Mick Varley and John Orrell.
A message from the past was shown in a foundry safety film.The Bingley foundry, (now closed) increased its safety at work record by the production of this film edited by Franc Medved. The danger from hot metals could not be overstressed, the message was to always wear the correct protective clothing. On the natural history theme was a film from the Hird household again, called intriguingly; "36 Yards"
David Myers provided a historical record of the bells and bell ringers at Guiseley Anglican Church. Much information was given on the bells themselves and we had a graphic illustration of how a bell is rung and this will be a valuable historic reminder to the bell ringing team. Sadly time ran out before we had time to see a Midland railway film but this will shown at a future date.
29th August - Gardens
Another Wednesday at Mercury Movie Makers revealed the green fingered side of our members as they demonstrated both gardening and camera skills. Many films showed members own gardens but some borrowed scenes from exotic places.
All films were well made and one even included an RAF Harrier jet fighter. Films included "Floral Bodrum" (from Turkey), "The Horticulturalists" (Included Monet and Maurice). Then there was "Peter's Garden" about a very hard working gardener.
On a different level were "Circle of Life" and "Your Inner Self". "Out and About" started with snow and went on to summer colours. There were other offerings which all made for a very pleasant and floral evening.
All films were well made and one even included an RAF Harrier jet fighter. Films included "Floral Bodrum" (from Turkey), "The Horticulturalists" (Included Monet and Maurice). Then there was "Peter's Garden" about a very hard working gardener.
On a different level were "Circle of Life" and "Your Inner Self". "Out and About" started with snow and went on to summer colours. There were other offerings which all made for a very pleasant and floral evening.
22nd August - Out and About Competition
Roy and Jean Vickers receive their trophy from Harry Lobley
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John Orrell, Harry Lobley and Michael Varley, "runners up"
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Mercury Movie Makers held their "Out and About" Competition for the Ken Leckenby trophy. Ken was a prolific film maker who travelled fairly widely but got his inspiration from the county of Yorkshire. As a result, the films for this competition are made in this area. There were eight entries. They varied from the story of the Corn Mill, carefully restored and working, visits to Shipley Glen and Knaresborough.
The voyage of Radio Leeds presenters travelling the length of the Leeds and Liverpool canal in a pedalo was featured in two films.
Steam trains also featured on the Worth Valley Railway and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. A naturalist film of bird life in the wetlands was also shown.
A film "Along the Banks of the Wharfe" by Roy and Jean Vickers (Pictured Left), which featured Burnsall won the competition.
The runner up was a film "Out and About in West Yorkshire " featuring Haworth 40's weekend and "Grace The Swan" on the canal at Bingley ,it also showed the preserved railway and locomotives at Haworth and was made by Mick Varley and John Orrell (Pictured Right). The eight entries were judged by Mr and Mrs Harry Lobley.
The voyage of Radio Leeds presenters travelling the length of the Leeds and Liverpool canal in a pedalo was featured in two films.
Steam trains also featured on the Worth Valley Railway and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. A naturalist film of bird life in the wetlands was also shown.
A film "Along the Banks of the Wharfe" by Roy and Jean Vickers (Pictured Left), which featured Burnsall won the competition.
The runner up was a film "Out and About in West Yorkshire " featuring Haworth 40's weekend and "Grace The Swan" on the canal at Bingley ,it also showed the preserved railway and locomotives at Haworth and was made by Mick Varley and John Orrell (Pictured Right). The eight entries were judged by Mr and Mrs Harry Lobley.
15th August - Talking Heads
A practical demonstration of lighting techniques was given by Martin Sunderland for the subject of "Talking Heads", no mystery there, simply we were filming different people with very different stories to tell. The fact that they were in close up meant that the film will concentrate on the story and their facial expressions. What an astounding group of tales were told to the camera by people we meet every week. First John Orrell spoke on canals but his own life was woven into the fabric of the canal scene and was fascinating; from buying his first boat and then his epic voyages which meant he traversed almost the whole of the British Waterways network.
Then a brief history of Mercury Movie Makers was described by Dudley Wilcock going through the account of the night school film making class in the 1950's that grew into a 100 member film club with its own cinema at Esholt.
Of course it is still flourishing in its Rawdon premises.
We had Peter Russell facing the camera and telling us of his life in music and then in the skilled craft of engraving.Remarkable how well both skills influenced his life.
Member Maurice Wray recounted his involvement with Post office Telephones and their successor BT.How his skills were needed by the British Army and the beginnings of his army career.
We switched then to the farming side of life as Peter Lumley revealed how to get a start in agriculture.He began with a unique college type atmosphere which gave some grounding but then despatched pupils to real farms for hands on experience.
This all made a good target for our cameramen of the evening including Martin Sunderland, Mick Varley and Bob Rudd. Technicians of various types included Bob Rowley, Peter Strickland and others. Some valuable lessons were learned and several helpful points were revealed to the audience. The film will be shown at a later date.
Then a brief history of Mercury Movie Makers was described by Dudley Wilcock going through the account of the night school film making class in the 1950's that grew into a 100 member film club with its own cinema at Esholt.
Of course it is still flourishing in its Rawdon premises.
We had Peter Russell facing the camera and telling us of his life in music and then in the skilled craft of engraving.Remarkable how well both skills influenced his life.
Member Maurice Wray recounted his involvement with Post office Telephones and their successor BT.How his skills were needed by the British Army and the beginnings of his army career.
We switched then to the farming side of life as Peter Lumley revealed how to get a start in agriculture.He began with a unique college type atmosphere which gave some grounding but then despatched pupils to real farms for hands on experience.
This all made a good target for our cameramen of the evening including Martin Sunderland, Mick Varley and Bob Rudd. Technicians of various types included Bob Rowley, Peter Strickland and others. Some valuable lessons were learned and several helpful points were revealed to the audience. The film will be shown at a later date.
8th August - Jubilee and Olympic film evening
On a recent Wednesday there was a request that Mercury Movies members bring films relevant to either the recent Jubilee celebrations or the highly topical Olympic Games. On the night a handful of interesting films arrived. These included the following;
A film of the Olympic torch being greeted by crowds at Harewood.
A film showing how the Royal Jubilee was celebrated at Menston this year. Having a special interest to locals this production has the advantage of being available on DVD .
Moving away from Yorkshire to the Royal surroundings, another film showed a great pageant being played out at Windsor.
These and other films led to an interesting evening.
A film of the Olympic torch being greeted by crowds at Harewood.
A film showing how the Royal Jubilee was celebrated at Menston this year. Having a special interest to locals this production has the advantage of being available on DVD .
Moving away from Yorkshire to the Royal surroundings, another film showed a great pageant being played out at Windsor.
These and other films led to an interesting evening.
1st August - Jim Hird Script night
Peter Hartingdon as "The Punk".
One of our members, Jim Hird wrote a script for a film and we made a film using the facilities of the club room. Martin Sunderland provided the lighting, Mike Varley was the camera man, a new member Rawdon was responsible for the mike boom. Other members played the part of extras in a pub atmosphere.
The two actors involved were Peter Hartingdon and Bob Rowley. Both looking very dishevelled in appearance, Peter had not shaved for a week and looked the part. The whole film was shot in the evening and will be edited by John Orrell for showing in the near future. Jim made an excellent director, and it just shows what the club can achieve when everyone pulls together to make such an enjoyable evening.
The two actors involved were Peter Hartingdon and Bob Rowley. Both looking very dishevelled in appearance, Peter had not shaved for a week and looked the part. The whole film was shot in the evening and will be edited by John Orrell for showing in the near future. Jim made an excellent director, and it just shows what the club can achieve when everyone pulls together to make such an enjoyable evening.
25th July - "Objects" Films
Mercury Movie Makers showed a programme of films themed "Objects". The films were created by club members from a list of six objects to make up the story.
"The wrong potato" was a short story involving six of our members on location in Pudsey and was filmed in one day earlier this year.
As we have had previous evenings on this theme, members contributed other films for the evening.
One member produced a sequence of four one minute trailers created by his 12 year old grandson on an iPad.
He has a fertile imagination and the sequences were put together making full use of the facilities of Apple iMovie.
Members agreed he should be encouraged to make films.
A film made by a newly formed local group in the south of Leeds have made a documentary, telling the story of coal mining with particular reference to the Lofthouse pit disaster in the seventies.
A rather long film that could have been split into chapters. A lot of effort has gone into the making of the film with footage of the work underground, interviews with some of the miners, a dedication ceremony to the memorial to the men lost and archive footage at the time of the disaster. A film made in 1999 of a club outing at Bolton Abbey was shown. Films of Venice, Athens and another "Objects" film taken in 2010 were shown. Two "Films the Music" were shown, "Up and away" filmed in a hot air balloon and "When your'e smiling" some very good close ups of people smiling from all over the World.
Finally a film "Boys will be Boys" was yet another objects film where discussion about a holiday location led to a disagreement and they finished up with a day out to a local pond!.
A varied evening of films. Jim Hird outlined the programme for next week. Lights, Camera and Action. We are to film to a script he has made up. Members are encouraged to bring their cameras to film the action.
"The wrong potato" was a short story involving six of our members on location in Pudsey and was filmed in one day earlier this year.
As we have had previous evenings on this theme, members contributed other films for the evening.
One member produced a sequence of four one minute trailers created by his 12 year old grandson on an iPad.
He has a fertile imagination and the sequences were put together making full use of the facilities of Apple iMovie.
Members agreed he should be encouraged to make films.
A film made by a newly formed local group in the south of Leeds have made a documentary, telling the story of coal mining with particular reference to the Lofthouse pit disaster in the seventies.
A rather long film that could have been split into chapters. A lot of effort has gone into the making of the film with footage of the work underground, interviews with some of the miners, a dedication ceremony to the memorial to the men lost and archive footage at the time of the disaster. A film made in 1999 of a club outing at Bolton Abbey was shown. Films of Venice, Athens and another "Objects" film taken in 2010 were shown. Two "Films the Music" were shown, "Up and away" filmed in a hot air balloon and "When your'e smiling" some very good close ups of people smiling from all over the World.
Finally a film "Boys will be Boys" was yet another objects film where discussion about a holiday location led to a disagreement and they finished up with a day out to a local pond!.
A varied evening of films. Jim Hird outlined the programme for next week. Lights, Camera and Action. We are to film to a script he has made up. Members are encouraged to bring their cameras to film the action.
11th July - Trailers and adverts
The task,"Make a film that looks like a TV advert or perhaps a film trailer" This led to an evening of imagination and chairman Roy Vickers introduced the following films at Mercury Movies in Rawdon. One was a convincing commercial for a block paving cleaning service for peoples drives. Following this a fictional make of gravy,named "Beefo" was on the screen.
Then followed automobile commercials perhaps slightly tongue in cheek;there was an exciting look at saloon car racing.
Then followed "banger" racing.An exciting ski-ing film was shown next with helmet mounted cameras. A new treatment of Tree Fellers cutting timber was shown. Turning more to the documentary we saw death defying birdmen flying down valleys and over lethal rocks. Some of the later films were taken from our fascinating library and included a visit to Kuala Lumpur,another one to the Shipley Glen tramway. A musical video to compare with the best of mainstream broadcasters was also shown.
We ended with a factual film about the Shipley and Saltaire floods of some years ago.
Roy certainly had enough material to enable us to see a full programme of new and old films.
Then followed automobile commercials perhaps slightly tongue in cheek;there was an exciting look at saloon car racing.
Then followed "banger" racing.An exciting ski-ing film was shown next with helmet mounted cameras. A new treatment of Tree Fellers cutting timber was shown. Turning more to the documentary we saw death defying birdmen flying down valleys and over lethal rocks. Some of the later films were taken from our fascinating library and included a visit to Kuala Lumpur,another one to the Shipley Glen tramway. A musical video to compare with the best of mainstream broadcasters was also shown.
We ended with a factual film about the Shipley and Saltaire floods of some years ago.
Roy certainly had enough material to enable us to see a full programme of new and old films.
27th June - Mabel Mackman & Doris Davies selection from the archives
Continuing the theme from the previous week,Mercury Movies showed a careful selection of films from their extensive library. The presenters this time were Mabel Mackman and Doris Davis. The wide range of subjects covered included a scenic visit to the Yorkshire dales. As a complete contrast a documentary showed the craft of the engraver,an expert showed his versatility on glass objects. Incidentally the craftsman is also a member of Mercury. In an exotic change of scene we were taken to South America.
A film shot on 16mm film and transferred to DVD was shown. Made by a relatively large crew of club members "Devil God"showed an exciting car chase and tragedy and spectacle also. In the end crime did not pay!. Other subjects were covered by further films and we saw the site of J.B.Priestley's preferred resting place at Hubberholme.
A film shot on 16mm film and transferred to DVD was shown. Made by a relatively large crew of club members "Devil God"showed an exciting car chase and tragedy and spectacle also. In the end crime did not pay!. Other subjects were covered by further films and we saw the site of J.B.Priestley's preferred resting place at Hubberholme.
20th June - Dudley Wilcock's selection from the archives
Wednesday evening at Mercury Movie Makers was dedicated to the archives recently. Dudley Wilcock, the chairman,had made a selection from the wealth of DVD's which have been entrusted to hold the hours of great video produced by Mercury.
Going merely to the beginning of the millennium brought back memories, the little references to the "millennium bug" a threat we have probably all forgotten about.
Films shown included,"American Vacation" (good scenery and music.)
"Hobbies Old and New" featured microscopes.
"Connect" (about mistaken identities) featured some members who have now moved away.
"Grass Roots" was a tongue in cheek gardening guide.
A film on Brass bands got the feet tapping and showed some wonderful editing, "Autumn Leaves" brought a tuneful interlude.
"Home Too" featured a German gentleman who settled in Yorkshire and was a powerful plea for peace among nations.
"Northern Pride" was a fine film narrated by a son of Northumberland. "Permissive Twit" brought us both humour and song. Whilst "Arthur Ransome" was a well researched and very scenic film about the children's author and his time in the Lake District.
Going merely to the beginning of the millennium brought back memories, the little references to the "millennium bug" a threat we have probably all forgotten about.
Films shown included,"American Vacation" (good scenery and music.)
"Hobbies Old and New" featured microscopes.
"Connect" (about mistaken identities) featured some members who have now moved away.
"Grass Roots" was a tongue in cheek gardening guide.
A film on Brass bands got the feet tapping and showed some wonderful editing, "Autumn Leaves" brought a tuneful interlude.
"Home Too" featured a German gentleman who settled in Yorkshire and was a powerful plea for peace among nations.
"Northern Pride" was a fine film narrated by a son of Northumberland. "Permissive Twit" brought us both humour and song. Whilst "Arthur Ransome" was a well researched and very scenic film about the children's author and his time in the Lake District.
13th June - Five Minute and Film to Music Competitions
Roy Vickers introduces our judge for the two competitions, Mike Breeze
We welcomed a new judge the other evening at Mercury Movie Makers. We were holding two club competitions, firstly the "Five Minute Film" and then the second category "A Film to Music". Judge Mike Breeze from Lancashire club Burnley was our official for the evening. The audience were pleased with his concise summing up and the constructive criticisms when required. The subjects covered included a visit to Majorca, and weed killing devices. To ring the changes there was South African native dancing, A few continents away we saw a splendid rodeo in America before rushing to Europe and "Searching for Dvorak". The final couple of films in this category showed musicians at Haworth and finally we were shown how scuffs and scratches which disfigure cars can be invisibly mended. After an interval we were shown a smaller selection of "Films to Music". Mlke Breeze then gave his well considered verdict and by great good fortune a relatively new member, Bob Rowley won both classes, winning two trophies. Runners up included Roy Vickers and Bob Rudd. Congratulations to all who took part but especially to Bob Rowley.
Five Minute Winner
Bob Rowley Wins with "Ode to Rodeo Cowboy".
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Five Minute Runner up
Roy and Jean Vickers are runners up with "I didn't see the wall".
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Film to Music Winner
Bob Rowley wins with "Bear Essentials".
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Film to Music Runner Up
Bob Rudd with "La Mer".
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6th June - Members Films
At Mercury Movie Makers the other evening our chairman David Smith brought one of his own films for us to see, entitled "A Trip to Vancouver" it gave a very picturesque record of the outstanding scenery. Altogether it gave us a good view of Canada. Keeping on a holiday theme David introduced a member's film, a tourist's view of Ireland, again with outstanding scenery and beautiful castles. Totally different was a promotional film on health which to Mercury's credit had been made possible by members Martin Sunderland and Peter Hartingdon. This showed interviews with walking groups, art group members all interested in keeping well. Other topics covered by the following films were New Year's Day celebrations and hardy individuals in very cold water. Then we saw the beautiful landscape of Norfolk. The colourful Hot Air Balloon festival in Bristol was shown, later on we saw the tropical charms of the Seychelles. Marine creatures shown at their best featured in "Sailing with Dolphins" A humorous film called "Raw Talent" (which had been made some time ago) showed how a new member appreciated Mercury Movies. There was an ingenious live action and cartoon film accompanied by an original poem also entitled "William the Conker". Some of the films shown were from our extensive film library which is all "home grown"
30th May - Westlake Films
David Myers of Mercury with John Isles and his colleagues.
On Wednesday evening we had a visit from progressive film makers Westlake Films represented by members including John Isles and Kevin Hiley. They brought variety of films their group had produced. Before each film a spoken introduction was given by one of the visitors. We started with "Misfortune", a comedy. After another introduction we we shown "Rail Rage" this showed two passengers evicted from a railway train for using a mobile phone and their enmity towards each other and the mishaps as they wait for another train. "Tales of the Woodland Ghetto" was a lively animation film. "Hey,Hey We're the Mongols" showed the attention to detail when the group made a film about the Mongol hordes and included authentic costumes and horsemanship and quite a bit of computer magic. "Shuttle Saves the World" took an affectionate look at the old Flash Gordon type of film and showed the hero Shuttle overcoming his rivals on another planet. "Data Protection" was another but different sci fi film. "Memories of the Mill" showed a grandfather explaining the workings of a fine worsted woollen mill to the film maker. He explained with the help of archive footage how such factories operated and he had obvious pride in the job as he stated, "Our cloth was the finest in the world". After another animation we saw a well researched film called "A Man of Words" This was about a man who coined the phrase, "It was a dark and stormy night....."in one of his books. Edward George Earle Lytton Bulwer-Lytton one time occupant of Knebworth Castle was the author and for a long time enjoyed fame as a writer. Another of his phrases was "The pen is mightier than the sword. "Thus ended another entertaining evening at Mercury by a very talented group.
Click Here to see the Westlake Films website.
Click Here to see the Westlake Films website.
23rd May - John Orrell entertains
One man's films formed the whole evenings entertainment at Mercury Movie Makers on Wednesday. John Orrell one of our members gave us a very varied selection of his entertaining films. What is known of a surprising food shown in "A Yorkshire Delicacy", the film went on to show the town of Mytholmroyd and its' annual competition for dock pudding, (made from locally grown leaves) "Funghi Foray" helped us to identify the mushrooms that can be eaten {and those that cannot) The next musical film featured a cha-cha. "My Capital Holiday" showed John's fourteen year old grand daughter made a very good job commentating on a sight seeing holiday in London. Our industrial past has been committed to film in John's next offering on life in a foundry these Yorkshire sites have now closed. In a holiday mood we saw "The Real Algarve" A film to music "Born Free" was shown next. "Raleigh's Legacy" was a tongue in cheek treasure hunt made by members of Mercury Movies and directed by John Orrell. A local figure in history, Titus Salt was the subject of "The Great Philanthropist" a very informative film. A gripping documentary showed how the Maypole is erected in Barwick in Elmet John captured all of the ceremony. This was a well received and very pleasant evening.
16th May - Dave Morton entertains
On Wednesday we had a guest film maker. We were entertained by Dave Morton, a film maker from Leeds Movie Makers. He took us to far away places, Venice the city of 1000 islands, Barcelona, to the races in France and the battlefields of Flanders, and the Caribbean. A visit to the now defunct Reims race track showing the stand and pits and signage still remaining with the sounds of the car race and a high speed trip down the road.(A member commented on how realistic the racing engine sounds were!) A documentary about the local Leeds drama group and the preparation and rehearsals for a forthcoming play. Some film to music, "Dock of the bay" and "Gone Fishing". A visit to Blackpool."Wild West Hero" showed a Western Cowboy re-enactment group having trouble when the ladies closed the bar!Finally, a BluRay film "Cocoa for Two" where a widower imagined his wife was still alive and made 2 cups of cocoa, well shot and poignant. Another enjoyable evening at Mercury Movie Makers and it is always good to have this transfer of film production ideas from other clubs
9th May - "Objects" films and a special event.
One purpose of the evening at Mercury Movie Makers recently was to reunite some people who were involved in an historic film. In the early 1980's a member wanted to recreate the childhood years of the Bronte girls at Haworth. Former member Jack Ely put a lot of work into this film all those years ago and one of the child actors (now grown up) was in the audience along with her relations. Present day member Gladys Ely who also put a lot of work into the dresses and hats for the original cast was also in the audience. The film shown first was made by Gordon Riley and this was a documentary showing how Jack's film was made, it showed the hard physical work of getting cameras and tripods and also props to remote locations. It was a good record of what happened on the rugged moors in the early eighties. Gordon and Evelyn Riley both former members were also with us in the audience. We then saw Jack Eley's film "Emily Jane". As already mentioned this showed the progress of the four children in the Bronte family. Later on various buildings with Bronte associations were shown. A well researched narration followed the early beginnings of writing by the sisters and images showed how they visited inspiring countryside and buildings. We were told of the difficulties of finding publishers in the early days. This was a well made movie produced by a dedicated film maker. On a different level we had a selection of club films mainly in the fiction category. We had examples of films based on "Objects", these items had been presented some weeks ago and various club groups had woven these random items in to film scripts. One film was "Diamond Widows" an amusing story. Then we had "Goodness, Gracious Me" another imaginative concept. Other films by club members included "The Legacy" and "Where's The Wedding". Click here to see more including photos.
25th April - George Senior entertains
At Mercury Movie Makers the other evening members knew they were in for a treat. From Selby came Film maker George Senior and family members bringing a wealth of entertainment. The first film was an ambitious musical film which showed a bride and wedding party dancing and moving to a popular song. This was well choreographed and it was amusing to see how well drilled the wedding party were. There were very good camera angles. The personnel of the Humberside Fire Service appeared in "Hot stuff".Funding for supply of smoke alarms to the local population had been used up. The firemen therefore used a novel method to raise enough cash to ensure every house had its own alarm. A well made and novel film. Next we had "This is Your Life" based on the once popular TV series. This followed the format of the show, but the celebrity featured in the film was A DOG! "Imagination" was a film which took a big band tune and featured a young girl who danced her way through it. She again must have been choreographed by the film maker and the difficult camera work and expert handling was well displayed here. There seemed to be no end to George Senior's talents as the next film "Drumming Up Steam" featured him on camera and drums, yes drums. In place of actual sound track of a vintage steam train, George simulated train noises on his drum kit. To prove the point there were occasional glimpses of his drum sticks superimposed over the train footage. "Ride of the Valkyries" featured some clever camera work and the local symphony orchestra playing the aforementioned piece of music. The final story film involved a farmer's daughter who wanted to have her own calf and happened to get one in a "Guess the Weight " contest. The calf "Ladybelle" was shown growing up as the story advanced. This was well acted and well filmed, it was a well considered film which completed a very good evening. Chairman Roy Vickers proposed the vote of thanks.
18th April - Showreel from Burnley Film Makers
Mercury Movie Makers learn from watching films from other clubs and this search for knowledge led us to review some films from Burnley Film Makers. This Lancashire club sent us nine films on two DVD's and gave us an entertaining evening. There were pauses between films for discussions. Films ranged from a display of Anthony Gormley's statues on a windswept Lancashire beach; to the desolate beauty of the Outer Hebrides looking for rare plants and wildlife. We saw the City of Rome and its' environs followed by a charity inspired trip to a Kenyan school near Mombasa, some very welcome items of clothing and school necessities were taken by the volunteers. We were shown the inhabitants and waterfowl of a Norfolk nature reserve. Later a long series of interesting rail journeys across the United States was shown. A holiday at a relations house on the Costa Brava revealed some evidence of hard work on an unforgiving garden bathed in the hot sun. By contrast a garden and superb house clinging to the Pennines near Hebden Bridge was made all the more pleasant by the house owners narration and his view of life.
4th April - Annual Competition Films Part 2
Mercury Movie Makers hold an annual competition and this year had many entries. Last week we saw the first batch of films, this week we started with "Freddie and the Frog Girl", a poem set to animation with the narrator in picture. A lovely fairy story well told and illustrated. This was the Winner of the Fiction section. Following that was "ARP" describing the job of Air Raid Precautions wardens in the Second World War followed by a humorous sketch by two wardens. "Firefighters at Work" showed firemen quickly extinguishing a car fire. "Nidderdale", the winner of the Unclassified section was shown next, How Stean Gorge was featured followed by a visit to Coldstones at Greenhow, a sculptured feature overlooking a large quarry. "A view of Krakow" took us to this fine Polish city with splendid views and fascinating features. "The Green Hell" featured motor racing at Nürburgring with unusual angles and shots. "St Maarten" followed with a tour of this Caribbean Island. There then followed an award winning film by Jean and Roy Vickers called "Metal Man" which demonstrated how, starting from an old copper cylinder a beautiful sculpture of a bird on a nest can be constructed. This won the Club competition Documentary award and has also won the West Riding Group of the IAC Non Fiction competition. Also theNorth East Region of the IAC (Film & Video Institute) Regional Shield as Best in the Competition at Scarborough in September 2011. "Portofino" a visit to this enchanting Italian fishing village. "Skiing in the Snow" followed, runner up to the Holiday and Travel category and winner of Best Edited film shows a day on the Ski Slopes with exciting action shots. Finally "A place of Crocodiles" winner of the Best film in the Competition and winner of the Holiday/Travel category shows a visit to the Kruger National Park, Interviews with regular visitors and good shots of wild animals and birds combined with a very informative commentary made this a very worthy winner. Click here for a full list of winners.
The trophies
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Rob Dunsire
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Lorna Dunsire presented by Roy Vickers
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Bob Rowley on behalf of Martin Sunderland
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28th March - Annual competition films Part 1
Franc Medved runner up with
"The Alien" in the Fiction
After an evening meal and prize giving event last week and having been informed of the winning films Mercury members had the chance to see them for the first time. This is due to the fact that Judges Joan and Trevor Spencer had made their selecction at a private viewing. So last Wednesday the prize winners were included in the following list, starting with; "Through Town and Country" a documentary of the Leeds &Liverpool canal. "White Bird" an unusual albino sparrow. "The Alien" humorous science fiction. "Wetherby" informative look at the West Yorkshire town, "Forgotten Children of India", On the spot report of a charity. "How to Tie a Bow Tie" Tricks of the sartorial trade. "Thirsty Work" A look at a local micro brewery. At this point there was an interval and refreshments were served before moving on to the second part of the evening. "Around Woodlesford" showing the history of this famous town. "Wrinklies"this showed a group more mature pop singers in a humorous vein. "Peterhof" Scenic vista of gardens and buildings in the St.Petersburg area. "Showing the Way" A documentary of some services provided through the auspices of Bradford Metro Council. Due to an exceptional number of entries this evening only partly covered the competition, further reports will note who won the major prizes.
21st March - Annual Dinner and Prize Presentation
Mercury Movie Makers celebrated the results of the Annual Competition.
Judges Joan and Trevor Spencer from Huddersfield gave the results. Trevor read out the results and Joan handed out the prizes.
The results are covered fully under Club Competitions .
Fiction The N & J Goodwin Trophy
Winner:- Rob & Lorna Dunsire "Freddie and the Frog Girl"
Chris Bartey was Runner up with "The Wrinklies".
Documentary The Alan Sidi / Andorra Trophy
Winner:- Roy & Jean Vickers "Metal Man"
Runner up:- Roy & Jean Vickers "Thirsty Work"
Cert of Merit:- Martin Sunderland "The Peterhof"
Unclassified:- The Longstaffe trophy
Winner:- Roy & Jean Vickers "Nidderdale"
Runner up:- Frank Medved "The Alien"
Holiday/Travel The John Rose Trophy
Winner:- George Thompson A Place of Crocodiles
Runner up:- Martin Sunderland Skiing in the Snow
Cert of Merit:- Robert Rudd Portofino
Best us of Sound The Roger Watkinson Trophy
Winner George Thompson A Place of Crocodiles
Best Edited The Peter Russell Trophy
Winner:- Martin Sunderland Skiing in the Snow
Best Film in Competition The Ernest Moran Trophy
Winner:- George Thompson A place of Crocodiles
Judges Joan and Trevor Spencer from Huddersfield gave the results. Trevor read out the results and Joan handed out the prizes.
The results are covered fully under Club Competitions .
Fiction The N & J Goodwin Trophy
Winner:- Rob & Lorna Dunsire "Freddie and the Frog Girl"
Chris Bartey was Runner up with "The Wrinklies".
Documentary The Alan Sidi / Andorra Trophy
Winner:- Roy & Jean Vickers "Metal Man"
Runner up:- Roy & Jean Vickers "Thirsty Work"
Cert of Merit:- Martin Sunderland "The Peterhof"
Unclassified:- The Longstaffe trophy
Winner:- Roy & Jean Vickers "Nidderdale"
Runner up:- Frank Medved "The Alien"
Holiday/Travel The John Rose Trophy
Winner:- George Thompson A Place of Crocodiles
Runner up:- Martin Sunderland Skiing in the Snow
Cert of Merit:- Robert Rudd Portofino
Best us of Sound The Roger Watkinson Trophy
Winner George Thompson A Place of Crocodiles
Best Edited The Peter Russell Trophy
Winner:- Martin Sunderland Skiing in the Snow
Best Film in Competition The Ernest Moran Trophy
Winner:- George Thompson A place of Crocodiles
Jean & Roy Vickers
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George Thompson
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Martin Sunderland
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Bob Rudd
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Chris Bartey
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