Opal of the West

Opal of the West is a snapshot in time of the Northern Seaside town Blackpool. Constructed with strong and pensive frames, the film presents itself like a collection of moving photographs. In the film we hear people who live in the town, talk about the meaning of community in the area and how important it is in their daily lives.

I wanted to create a warm, sentimental score that would shine a light on the incredible people in this film. These people aren’t often celebrated yet they do so many little gestures that bring together community, change and positivity. When researching the music of Blackpool I quickly came across the importance of ballroom dancing and the incredible sounding Wurlitzer organ in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom. This style of music quickly became an inspiration as I loved the sense of nostalgia is created, complimenting the instrumentation of piano, vibraphones, winds and brass.

Directed by Charlie Watts.
Produced by Dave Birchall.

Festivals: Cinequest Film Festival, Atlanta Film Festival, Manchester Film Festival, Bolton Film Festival, Aspen International, Wales International Film Festival, Lytham International Film Festival, Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival.