Watch Morris: A Life With Bells On

Morris: A Life With Bells On is a heartfelt comedy-drama film that tells the story of Derecq Twist (played by Charles Thomas Oldham) who is a young man that dreams of becoming a Morris dancer. Derecq is inspired by his deceased father, who was a legendary Morris dancer, and decides to take up the art form after being taunted by the Grim North Stompers, a rival dance troupe.

Derecq enrolls in the University of Morris, the only institution in the world that teaches Morris dancing, and meets a group of eccentric characters who share his passion for the art. He befriends the spirited and adventurous Anthea (Lucy Akhurst), a former student of the university who dropped out to start a family, and the flamboyant Nigel (Brodie Bass), who designs and makes Morris dance costumes.

Along with his new friends, Derecq sets out to create a new Morris dance routine that will win the prestigious Morris World Cup. They encounter a series of obstacles along the way, including the disapproval of Derecq's mother (Naomi Allisstone), the treachery of the Grim North Stompers, and the disintegration of the Morris World Cup committee.

As the competition approaches, Derecq and his friends must band together to overcome their differences and prove themselves on the world stage. They must not only face their rivals in a dance-off but also reconcile their personal relationships and find a way to preserve the legacy of Morris dancing.

Morris: A Life With Bells On is a charming and quirky film that celebrates the beauty and joy of Morris dancing. It is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance and the importance of preserving cultural traditions. The film is directed by Lucy Akhurst and written by Tim Plester, who also stars in the film as Jethro, the leader of the Grim North Stompers. The film also features Andy Black as Mr. Blister, the eccentric founder of the University of Morris, who provides comedic relief and unique insights into the world of Morris dancing.

The cinematography by Roger Simonsz is stunning, capturing the vibrant colors and sweeping landscapes of the English countryside. The music, composed by Eliza Carthy and Jim Moray, is a mix of traditional Morris tunes and contemporary folk music, adding to the film's charm and authenticity.

Overall, Morris: A Life With Bells On is a delightful film that will make viewers laugh, cry, and dance. It is a must-see for anyone interested in traditional folk dance, quirky comedies, or stories of perseverance and passion. The film is a tribute to the power of the human spirit and the beauty of cultural diversity. It is a film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.