As the MV Balmoral was taken to the Albion Dry Dock in 2024, its 75th year, local Bristol filmmaker duo Maria Webb and Harry Knight became curious about the disappearance of the ship from its usual berth outside the M-Shed in Bristol. They soon discovered that it had been moved to the dry dock for important restoration work.
Intrigued by the project, they approached the Balmoral team about creating a short documentary. Harry Knight jumped on board, recording the efforts and work being done to preserve this unique 'people's liner'.
The film will not only celebrate the ship but also speaks to the historic harbour in Bristol where she has been moored. The film also showcases a very special archival recording from the launch of the Balmoral in 1949 at Southampton, which has been recently restored and captures the event. Knight will be taking the film on its Maiden Voyage in Spring 2025, visiting the South West ports and piers that Balmoral could be seen at when she was in operation.
If you'd like to host a screening at your local cinema you can contact Harry on hello@fallingfilms.com. This could include a live Q&A with the filmmakers and some of the Balmoral team.
While the film is still in production, you can view a short trailer of their work in progress on their YouTube channel.
Screenings will be posted on the official website and people can also join the mailing list for the latest updates.
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