Discussion to follow DCA showing of Swan

A DUNDEE mother and her autistic daughter feature in a new documentary to be screened in the city next month.

The short film, Swan, sees Scottish director Lindsay Brown follow Sami Bremner and her daughter April, soon to turn 16, as they traverse the everyday difficulties living with autism brings.

For April, independence seems an impossible dream because of the challenges of living with profound sensory and learning difficulties. The film is made locally and earned a Bafta Scotland nomination for best short film last year.

It will be shown at DCA on Saturday February 18 and will also feature an in-depth discussion panel involving Sami, Ms Brown, producer Anne Milne and Jasmine Miller, principal of New Struan School, which caters for pupils across the autism spectrum.

The showing is part of Scottish Encounters, DCA’s new strand of programming that highlights emerging Scottish screen talent.

Ms Brown said: “The motherdaughter relationship can be fraught with tension as much as love.

“The Bremners’ story is guaranteed to touch your heart.

“I feel privileged to have been trusted into their lives to allow people to share part of their journey.”

Alice Black, head of cinema at DCA, said: “With Scottish Encounters, DCA plans to showcase the range of films being made today in Scotland.”

The event is free but ticketed. Donations to New Struan School will be welcomed on the door.

A publicity shot for the film, Swan.