Ordinary Heroes

Seven films that share a keen sense of observation and a sincere admiration for their subjects.

It takes a dedicated programme to do justice to the number of great documentaries we received this year from British filmmakers. These seven films share a keen sense of observation and a sincere admiration for their subjects. There is Oor Wally, the longest serving mascot in history, who supports a Scottish football team; David, a retired engineer from the Midlands, who has spent the last 45 years meticulously recreating miniature Mechanical Wonders from the 18th century; and not forgetting Venus, an inspiring female drag performer. These real-life accounts may well offer Flatpack 11’s feelgood highlight.

Platform 1 Dir: Jessica Bishopp (UK / 2015 / 10 mins)

Mechanical Wonders Dir: Simon Russell (UK / 2016 / 9 mins)

Sand Men Dir: Tal Amiran (UK / 2016 / 14 mins)

Oor Wally Dir: Martin Lennon (UK / 2016 / 12 mins)

Rounds Dir: Siôn Marshall-Waters (UK / 2016 / 16 mins)

Venus Dir: Faye Carr-Wilson (UK / 2016 / 6 mins)

Fish Story Dir: Charlie Lyne (UK / 2017 / 14 mins)

Total running time: 80 mins