ShAFF: Made In Sheffield - Climb Films 12A

A new addition to ShAFF, a second selection of the best films Made In Sheffield this year specifically dedicated to Climb Films.

1. Tom Randall Berlin Film 20 minutes

   Last year, Rab athlete Tom Randall relocated to Berlin to begin working on what he has since called the hardest off-width crack climb in the world – Autobahn. Far removed from the striking sandstone formation in Utah that is home to Tom’s previous masterpiece, Century Crack (which last held the title of the world’s hardest crack climb), this unassuming line instead runs along the dark underbelly of a bridge. Nonetheless, the climb was perhaps Tom’s most gruelling yet, and it brings into sharp focus the often overlooked potential of urban climbing. In this film, which is directed by George Phillips, we watch as Tom prepares for and accomplishes Autobahn, as well as other intimidating lines around Berlin, and we explore the roots of pioneering within the sport. This naturally takes us back to the Peak District, Tom’s home, and more widely the home of climbing in the UK.

2. In It To Wing It 12 minutes

   2023 saw record lows in female participation across national climbing competitions, with less than 50% participation in comparison to the male categories. The film was commissioned by the BMC and GB Climbing to encourage more women to take part in climbing competitions and to help spread a positive narrative about entering for the whole experience, even if you won't win. In It To Wing It represents women in a heartfelt and positive light who actually aren't the best/strongest/most epic athletes. It's easy to feel unworthy unless you can boast perfection, or a world record. But this film shows the other side of the coin: Everyone is worthy of having a go and trying their best, and even small stories of success are worth sharing.

3. The Parkinson Project 53 minutes

   This documentary follows climber and teacher, Chris Hamper, as he navigates his diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. His Parkinson's diagnosis has forced him to redefine his passion for climbing. His tremor makes tying knots and clipping gear difficult; his lack of dopamine reduces the reward and motivation process, forcing Chris to find new ways to stay inspired. And yet, once he is on the rock, climbing appears to be one of the very few activities that minimise his symptoms. Now, eight years after his diagnosis, Chris is potentially coming to the end of the “honeymoon” period of his Parkinson’s. This means he could start to see the effects of the disease more acutely, including the impact it may have on his ability to continue climbing. Knowing this, Chris has taken early retirement from teaching to climb as much as possible around his home in Norway and with friends in Sheffield.