The Cannes Docs-in-Progress showcase recently unveiled a selection of promising projects, including the documentary “Average White Band: Soul Searching,” produced by Montrose Pictures. Check out this film about the fantastic adventure of the Average White Band. That’s right, the Average White Band. This legendary soul and funk group got their start in Scotland in the 1970s. The project is now in production and has recently received support from Screen Scotland and BFI Doc Society.
With a budget of £350,000, “Average White Band: Soul Searching” is already 42% financed. In the 1980s, a pack of working-class Scottish men rocketed to international notoriety as one of the world’s biggest pop bands. It’s helping to shine a light on their unique hero’s journey and cultural impact. The film is the fourth feature by comedic provocateur, director, and son of the Highlands, Anthony Baxter.
The Cannes Docs-in-Progress showcase is the latest in a string of high-profile joint projects between the Cannes market, the Scottish Documentary Institute, and Screen Scotland. It includes four outstanding documentary projects this year. Alongside “Average White Band: Soul Searching,” the showcase includes “Your Honour,” which tells the story of a trans law student facing constant threats in Turkey; “Everybody To Kenmure Street,” illustrating the solidarity of neighbors who surrounded an ICE van that was attempting to detain members of their community; and “Love Letters,” portraits of the daily lives of residents of the historical fishing village of Gardenstown, Scotland.
This mix of voices showcases the vigorous patchwork of art and activism that is today’s documentary filmmaking.
“First times are always important and they stay with us for the rest of our lives.” – A frequent Cannes filmmaker
These projects are changing quickly. As ever, they bring these important social issues to the fore whilst celebrating the talent and strength of creativity within Scottish filmmakers. Cannes Docs-in-Progress showcase emerging talent and powerful stories from the Global South. It brings these same inspiring stories to viewers all across the world.