After receiving a overwhelmingly positive reception from the audience, an independent documentary that follows a group mine explorers from Cornwall prepares for a nationwide cinema tour.
Dan Simpkins spent over two years filming a close-knit group of people known as The Carbis Bay Crew. The crew investigates the abandoned mine shafts and tunnels that were left by Cornwall’s mining history.
Cornish demand for the film has grown after a successful series of local screenings. The demand for several screenings was so high that the organisers had to add more showings in other parts of Cornwall.
Cornwall’s Hidden Underground World
Carbis Bay Crew posts on Facebook some of the adventures they have had underground. They are also careful to emphasize that mining is dangerous. They never disclose the precise locations of mines that they explore to protect the public’s safety.
Each member must undergo a thorough safety course before heading underground. The group will learn how to work together, manage the equipment and assess risk.
The audience’s reaction was strong
The documentary was a hit in new towns and sold out screenings. This shows that it has a wide audience. Simpkins said that the documentary reflects human experiences to which many can relate.
Find Peace Through Risk
Film editor Angus Breton says the film’s emotional impact is largely due to the setting underground. Old mines provide dramatic visuals but also show the dangers that the two explorers face together.
Breton said that everyday concerns disappear when crew members are deep underground. Money, stress or conflicts with friends and family are no longer a concern. The explorers can find peace and calm in an environment that is otherwise very extreme.
The film’s central theme is the sense of calm, in spite of danger. It resonates with the audience.
National Tour
Cumbria in November last year, the documentary received wider recognition.
