Film Lens
Gypsy Blood is a British observational documentary that examines the fighting culture passed from Romani fathers to their sons. The film focuses on Hughie Doherty, who fights to defend his family's name, and his son Francie, who navigates life between school and the travelers' campsite. The documentary captures their experiences over two years, showing Francie learning to read while also engaging in traditional activities like sparring and hunting.
The film also features Fred Butcher, a Romany man who survives a near-fatal machete attack after a violent incident in a pub. Filmed by Leo Maguire and produced by ClearStory, Gypsy Blood provides an intimate look at the lives of its subjects, revealing the complexities of their cultural identity and the challenges they face.
Why Watch
- •Meet Hughie Doherty defending his family's name.
- •Follow young Francie balancing school and campsite life.
- •See Fred Butcher's story after a violent pub incident.
Did You Know
•Gypsy Blood attracted 2.01 million viewers on its premiere night on 19 January 2012.
•The film received 500 complaints to Ofcom, including one from the RSPCA.
•Leo Maguire was shortlisted for Cinematography at the 2012 Bafta Craft Awards.
•Gypsy Blood was showcased at the 2012 Sheffield documentary festival.
Perfect For
Romani cultureDocumentary enthusiastsTrue crime stories