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A documentary by local filmmaker Ian Miller, capturing the construction of a small bridge in Shakespear Regional Park, will screen at the Doc Edge Film Festival in July.
Ian, who had a long career in film and television before retiring, has been a dedicated volunteer at the park alongside his wife Nancy for many years.
When a group of retired volunteers decided to build a bridge to a waterfall in the park last winter, Ian pulled out his cellphone to film the project. That footage became the foundation of a 15-minute documentary he later submitted to the festival.
“I’m addicted to making films and I’ve been working with these guys for about 10 years,” Ian says. “They’re very fit and active – a mix of builders, technicians, and engineers – and they’ve helped build all sorts of things around the park.”
Old Men Build a Bridge captures retired volunteers at Auckland’s Shakespear Park, hand-building a stream crossing. The 15-minute film highlights their camaraderie and diverse skills, as well as the park’s beauty. It’s a light-hearted look at community spirit, showing the joy of tangible creation and the friendships formed through years of volunteering.
Old Men Build a Bridge will screen at the Doc Edge Shorts 4 collection July 5, 3.30pm – Bridgeway Cinema, July 10, 6.15pm – The Capitol Cinema.
