Film Lens
66 Months: Under the Radar is a 2011 British documentary directed by James Bluemel that follows Nigel Fletcher, a homeless man who survived six years without government assistance. The film is produced by Moving Target Films in association with Dartmouth Films and was inspired by the relationship between filmmaker Gordon Wilson and his partner Robbie Burns. It documents the life of Fletcher, who lived under the radar of social services, dealing with issues of abuse, mental illness, and alcoholism.
The film presents a personal narrative from Nigel's perspective, juxtaposing his current institutional life with memories from his time living in poverty alongside Robbie in Oxford. It took seven years to complete and raises questions about society's duty of care, abusive relationships, and the struggles faced by vulnerable individuals in a flawed social care system.
Why Watch
- •Meet Nigel Fletcher, a man living without support.
- •See the impact of social care failures in Oxford.
- •Find out about the bond between Nigel and Robbie.
Did You Know
•Nigel Fletcher lived without government assistance for 66 months.
•Filmmaker Gordon Wilson was homeless when he attended a workshop in 2011.
•The film took seven years to complete and was shot over six years.
•Robbie Burns, who lived with Nigel, died before the film was finished.
Perfect For
Social care issuesHomelessnessMental health awareness