Cannes film
Wednesday May 5 2010
After years of research and hard work, a little-known tenth century legend – said to be behind the origin of the city of Southampton – will be making its screen debut in Cannes thanks to Solent lecturer and film director, Gela Jenssen.
To Unwill a Heart - a 15 minute film of the legend of Sir Bevois – has secured a place in the prestigious film festival’s Short Film Corner from 12-22 May.
The legend of Sir Beovis–told by story tellers across Russia and Europe up until the 17th century – is a fascinating insight into Southampton’s heritage.
Gela has spent many hours researching old-English documents to piece together the story, including the medieval Auchinleck Mansuscript at the National library of Scotland.
It follows the life of Sir Bevois – son of Sir Guy, Earl of Hampton – sold to slave merchants by his mother and ending up in the court of Ermyn, King of Armenia.
Accompanied by his Page, Ascupart, Sir Bevois encounters many adventures, with the help of a magic sword and a charmed horse, before falling in love with Muslim princess, Josian, and returning to England to reclaim his father’s land.
Southampton bears place names – Bevois Valley, Josian Walk, Ascupart Street – that hark back to the legend’s origin. The stone lions at the city’s Bargate represent the two lions Bevois is reputed to have killed while defending Josian.
The HD film - developed by the University’s film and production experts using Southampton actors - was shot around the city’s medieval landmarks, including the underground vaults and God’s House Tower.
At Cannes, Gela is looking forward to receiving feedback on the film and hopes to get interest in developing the project into a full-length feature.
She said: “It’s been a fascinating project to research and it’s fantastic to have the film accepted at such a prestigious festival.”
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE MEDIA OFFICE on 023 8031 9040