DEREK VS DEREK

DEREK VS DEREK (formerly ‘Fields Apart’)

To combat climate change and biodiversity loss science tells us countries around the world must protect 30% of nature by 2030. With less than 5 years to go before this deadline; many have made commitments, signed international agreements and the UN Sustainable Development Goals are clear. But the reality is, not enough is happening. 

In the UK, the debate about land use is raging. On a country road in Devon, England live two neighbouring farmers, both called Derek. They tussle over the future of farming. One is a third generation dairy farmer who believes in intensive farming and is hellbent on producing industrially farmed food whatever the cost. The other has decided to turn his entire farm into an oasis for nature.  Shot over three years the film charts the two Derek's relationship, and the impact on the local community as tempers fray, wild animals escape, and the land is transformed. 

In feature documentary Derek vs Derek, BAFTA award winning director James Dawson explores this unexpected tale of two warring neighbours. Who in a surprising turn of events - and thinking about their legacies - realise they have much more in common than they think. It’s a film about land and farming told by farmers: it’s blunt, funny and heartwarming in equal measure. 

Through an impact campaign and strategic communications ecosystem designed around the film, we have a unique opportunity to engage rural communities in the debate around biodiversity loss, food security and climate mitigation. If the two Dereks can find common ground, perhaps there’s hope for us all.

Credits
Director - James Dawson

Lead Producer - Serena Kennedy

Impact Producer - Nicola Brown
Executive Producer - Adam Wishart

A Damer Production / The Slate Works co-production

in association with Loupe Films