Movie maker teams up with NDCS
The group behind the unique film project ’Dummy Jim’, have formed a partnership with the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS). The team, who are raising funds to make a film about a deaf explorer, will be donating two percent of funds raised to NDCS drama workshops for deaf children and young people.
Edinburgh-based filmmaker, Matt Hulse, has embarked on making a feature movie based on a journal published in 1957 called ‘I cycled Into the Arctic Circle’. The journal tells a story of a profoundly deaf James Duthie, known fondly as Dummy Jim, who travelled 3000 miles on his bike in 1951, from his village in Scotland via France to the Arctic Circle.
The film director is appealing to people who believe in unique, innovative and independent films to support the project. ‘Dummy Jim’ has already attracted support from Jerwood Charitable Foundation. Well-known BBC ‘Switch’ actor Samuel Dore has been cast in the lead role.
Matt Hulse explains: “James Duthie had a real affinity with children, both deaf and hearing. He was concerned with their welfare, both in the UK and overseas, and shared with children a genuine, open-hearted curiosity about the world around him. It's particularly appropriate therefore that the partnership is with a charity who shares the same interest in the welfare of children.
“This partnership is of immense value to us. The public support of a well-established and respected charity sends out a clear message of validation and good will towards Dummy Jim. We look forward to developing the relationship with NDCS and helping raise money to support both the charity's work and the making of our film.”
Ruth Couthino, NDCS Development Manager, adds: “We are pleased to have become a charity partner for the ‘Dummy Jim’ movie and are grateful to the team for supporting our arts projects for deaf children and young people.”
“Access to the arts is extremely important for deaf children. The opportunity to express themselves through a variety of creative forms can help deaf children develop their self-confidence, emotional intelligence, and conceptual understanding.”
NDCS provides support and services that transform the lives of deaf children and their families. 90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents and struggle to communicate with their immediate family and peers. NDCS helps them engage fully with the world around them and to reach their full potential.
An interactive website has been created in advance of a feature film to give visitors a chance to explore some of the highlights of Duthie’s journey.
