A powerful story of art and advocacy unfolds with the films of Ian Bustard and Ron Coleman, a collaboration that gave voice to those living with dementia.
Unveiling the Power of Storytelling
When Ian Bustard, a BAFTA-winning filmmaker, embarked on a personal mission to create a film about dementia, he did so with a heavy heart and a desire to help. His father's diagnosis had left him searching for answers, and thus, a partnership was born with Ron Coleman, a Scottish poet and activist living with vascular dementia, known as The Demented Poet.
Their collaboration resulted in a documentary and a short film, now showing as a double feature across the country. These films have evoked emotional responses from those living with dementia and their caregivers, offering a unique and empowering perspective.
The Demented Poets: A Journey of Resilience
Bustard's documentary, “The Demented Poets,” follows his personal journey after his father's diagnosis. It introduces viewers to Coleman and other remarkable “dementia activists” who refuse to let their condition define them. This powerful documentary provides a unique insight into the lives of those living with dementia, showcasing their resilience and determination.
But here's where it gets controversial... The film challenges the typical narrative surrounding dementia, offering a perspective that goes beyond the medical profession's view. It dares to ask: What if we saw dementia not just as a diagnosis, but as a unique journey of self-discovery and empowerment?
Caught in This Moment in Time: A Creative Collaboration
Alongside the documentary, Bustard and Coleman created a short film, “Caught in This Moment in Time,” based on Coleman's stage play. In this film, Coleman plays a writer with dementia, battling writer's block, accompanied only by his AI companion, Alexa. It's a poignant portrayal of the creative mind navigating the challenges of dementia.
Bustard shared with BBC Scotland News that the screenings aim to give a voice to those living with dementia, offering a different perspective and a sense of community. He believes these films can provide comfort and hope to those recently diagnosed and their families.
And this is the part most people miss... The emotional response to these films has been profound. Bustard shares that even those who have received a diagnosis have found positivity and inspiration through these stories, a rare and powerful gift.
A Legacy Continued
Sadly, Ron Coleman passed away in October last year, during a run of screenings. On his deathbed, he entrusted Bustard with a special request – to continue their work on a third film in his memory. Bustard, honoring this wish, is now working with the team he and Coleman built, to bring Coleman's vision to life.
The duo had been developing “The F Ward,” a film conceived by Coleman, exploring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on residents in care homes. Bustard shares Coleman's final words: “He left me with a list of tasks, but he said, ‘What I want you to do more than anything else is to finish the F Ward.’”
Bustard promises to fulfill this wish, continuing their mission to preserve the memories and stories of the pandemic era, with actors living with dementia and experienced actors coming together for this project.
The “Demented Poet” double bill will be showing at Montrose Playhouse on January 22nd, Eastgate Theatre and Arts Centre in Peebles on January 23rd, and Eastwood Theatre in Giffnock on February 13th. A must-see for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of dementia and the power of art to inspire and heal.
