A moving new documentary is set to be screened in Liverpool this week, offering a heartfelt and inspiring portrait of Walton and its people.
Of People and Place, commissioned by Hat Trick Productions’ Managing Director Jimmy Mulville, who was born and raised in Walton, is a 30-minute film shot entirely on location in the area. The documentary challenges negative perceptions of Walton, instead celebrating its creativity, resilience, and strong sense of community.
Told through the voices of local residents, the film highlights grassroots projects and the transformative role of art in bringing people together. Its message is clear: Walton should not be defined by the events of the 2024 riots, but by the pride, talent and spirit of those who call it home.
The premiere will take place at Alsop High School on the evening of Thursday 9 October, with Culture Liverpool supporting the red-carpet event. Guests will include community members featured in the film, along with Jimmy Mulville, Producer Jaynie Miller, Director Carl Hunter, and pupils from local schools.
Jimmy Mulville said:
“Walton was my home for the first twenty years of my life. It educated me at Alsop Comprehensive – as it was then – from 1966 to 1974 enabling me to follow my dreams. More importantly than that the people of Walton gave me a thorough education in generosity of spirit and resilience. The people I grew up with surprised you with their wisdom and cracked you up with their wit. They also took great delight in proving people wrong. In this beautiful film, Of People and Place, you will see that the people of Walton are to this day the same generous, resilient, good-humoured people who love to prove people wrong. I’m proud to be associated with it.”
Producer Jaynie Miller said:
“At a time where there is so much division in the world and on our own doorsteps, it’s been a pleasure to work on this documentary and to be reminded about the strength of community. The importance of the creative arts in bringing people together and lifting individuals out of their darkest moments, cannot be overstated.”
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing & Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:
“Walton is a community that’s close to my heart, and I couldn’t be more proud of the community and its response in the face of some dark times in the summer of 2024. Residents would not allow the riots to define Walton, and instead, under a global media spotlight, showed impressive resilience and hope for the future. This documentary promises to shine a light on the real Walton and I’m excited to see how the film captures that spirit and offers a new narrative – one rooted in pride, possibility and the power of culture.”
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