Area has plenty to offer

We can expect lots of interest for the Canadian premiere of a movie to screen at the de Coste Entertainment Centre in May. That’s to be expected for several good reasons, one being the use of an iconic local feature as a set in part of the filming.

Folks might remember when a crew was in Pictou to film portions of “Newton’s Grace” back in 2013. They used the Ship Hector for scenes, since the production team wanted an authentic-looking tall ship to fit the period in telling the story of John Newton, an English sailor from the 18th century who later was ordained as an evangelical Anglican cleric.

But Newton is best remembered for having written the hymn “Amazing Grace.”

That in itself is enough to get a lot of people’s attention. Most people know that song, and not necessarily in a religious context. It’s been a staple of gospel, country and folk music for many years.

The hymn is also – as this movie’s title suggests – central to the theme of the film. The story tells of the conversion of a man who captained slave ships, at a time when slavery was still a common practice, who underwent a spiritual transformation and embraced Christianity.

Newton later went on to support abolition of the African slave trade, which came about in Britain in 1807.

An uplifting spiritual theme is always good for a story line. But this one will offer some points of familiarity too, including recognition of some of the background characters.

In fact, well-known local musician John Spyder Macdonald, who’s taken the stage in many stage productions in Pictou County, has a substantial role in the film.

Director John Jackman told The News this week that the production crew was pleased to see such an active theatrical community in the area, always a resource to draw on with any such artistic venture.

Also, footage shot in the area included views of some of the historic buildings. It will be interesting, indeed, to see how many familiar points have made it into the final cut. Certainly many local residents were out during the time of shooting to satisfy their curiosity.

Barry Randle, an extra in the movie, said he sees plenty of potential in Pictou for projects such as this, and he’s got a good point. The town does have character, with plenty of landmarks that ring an authentic historical note.

The film could provide a great calling card in its distribution, showing others what this area has to offer.