Indie Film’s Hidden Chapter Exposed

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MOVIE REVIEW
Mancunian Man: The Legendary Life of Cliff Twemlow
(adult content) –

Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 2h 4m
Director(s): Jake West
Where To Watch: gets a Manchester screening on November 12, 2023, at Cultplex, then plays at The Abertoir Festival in Wales (www.abertoir.co.uk), The Bristol Cube Cinema 20th Nov, and The Derby Quad 24th Nov; it will receive its digital release in early 2024 from Severin Films

RAVING REVIEW: MANCUNIAN MAN takes us on a winding path through the life of Cliff Twemlow, whose relentless pursuit of cinematic creation led him to craft a legacy from the shadows. In Jake West's documentary, the streets of Manchester are not just a backdrop but a character for the film, integral to the story of a man whose environmental roots fertilized his artistic ambitions.

Nestled in the heart of Britain lies a story not often told, but MANCUNIAN MAN brings it into the limelight with finesse. We delve into the life and times of Cliff Twemlow, a figure whose fortitude and fervor left an indelible mark on the tapestry of independent film, as viewers are escorted through the rich, complex narrative of Twemlow's existence, which West captures with the understanding of a seasoned fan.

Twemlow’s tale unfolds like a screenplay filled with triumphs and trials. As a former nightclub bouncer, he transitioned to the film scene, not through the traditional gateways but by forging his unique path. The persona of Twemlow is etched in the collective memory of VHS fans, yet the essence of the man remains shrouded in mystery. The documentary peels back the layers, revealing a character study of a man whose independent streak in filmmaking was as rugged and raw as the Manchester district he hailed from. West assembles a mosaic of memories featuring Twemlow's contemporaries who paint a picture of a creator whose visions were as bold as the images he put on screen.

MANCUNIAN MAN captures the fragility of an artist's life, strung together by the thin royalties and the fickle nature of audience tastes. Twemlow’s filmography is a rich mix of genres, settings, and characters, each reflecting a steadfast dedication to the craft, regardless of the often insurmountable odds.

West turns the lens back on the city that cradled and inspired Twemlow’s creative endeavors. The documentary reflects Twemlow’s commitment to his craft and community, as he churned out film after film, driven not by genre conventions but by an indomitable will to create.

With Severin Films' caring hand, Twemlow's narratives and journey are being introduced to new audiences, a renaissance of a figure who once captivated the eclectic VHS shelves. West’s documentary immerses us, making viewers feel part of the maverick’s adventures.

MANCUNIAN MAN is more than an archival piece; it's a living, breathing embodiment of Twemlow's spirit and an homage to a bygone era of indie film fervor. West’s storytelling resurrects and ennobles Twemlow’s memory, positioning him not just as a filmmaker but as an integral piece of Manchester's cultural and artistic legacy.

The film ultimately celebrates Twemlow’s tenacity and artistic integrity, ensuring his name is remembered not as a footnote but as a beacon of creative ambition in the complex narrative of film history. MANCUNIAN MAN secures Twemlow’s place in the annals of cinema – not as a ghost of the past but as a lingering voice of inspiration for the future of indie filmmaking.

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[photo courtesy of SEVERIN FILMS]

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As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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