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Deep Dive: Gallivant (1996)

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Gallivant
Gallivant is Andrew Kötting's first feature-length film, released in 1996. The documentary captures a clockwise trip around the coast of Britain, featuring Kötting's 85-year-old grandmother, Gladys, and his seven-year-old daughter, Eden. Eden was born with Joubert syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects neurological functions, which adds a layer of personal significance to the film. The relationship between Gladys and Eden, alongside the theme of mortality, serves as a central emotional element throughout the film. The film premiered at the Edinburgh Film Festival, where it won the Channel 4 Best New Director prize. It received recognition in Time Out's list of the 100 best British films, ranking at number 49. The contrasting opinions on the film, such as Stewart Lee's praise against Peter Bradshaw's one-star review, reflect its unique reception and impact on audiences.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Gladys, Kötting's 85-year-old grandmother.
  • •Find out about Eden's Joubert syndrome.
  • •See the coast of Britain through a unique lens.
  • •Follow a personal story of family and mortality.

Did You Know

•Gallivant was released in 1996 as Andrew Kötting's first feature film.
•Eden, Kötting's daughter, was born in 1988 at Guy's Hospital, London.
•Gladys, Kötting's grandmother, was 85 years old during the filming.
•The film won the Channel 4 Best New Director prize at its premiere.
•Gallivant was ranked number 49 in Time Out's 100 best British films.

Perfect For

Documentary enthusiastsFans of British cinemaFamily relationship stories