IT bears a passing resemblance to a 1950s sci-fi B movie
But a film getting its premiere in Holmfirth tomorrow is very much more down to earth.
“Supermarkets Ate My Valley” is a documentary on the controversial plan by Tesco to build a new supermarket in Holmfirth.
The film tries to capture many of the opinions both for and against the plans to develop the former Midlothian Garage site off New Mill Road.
And it will have its first showing at 1pm tomorrow in Brambles, Holmfirth, as part of the Holmfirth Film Festival.
The 50-minute film is the work of freelance editor Mark Garvey, who has lived in Holmfirth for 15 years, and producer and reporter Helen Selka.
The pair interviewed and filmed dozens of people – including existing shopkeepers and business people, members of the Keep Holmfirth Special campaign, local residents and shoppers.
Mr Garvey said: “We tried to be unbiased but it is an emotive, controversial issue and a lot of that comes across in the film.
“The title is a play on words on the old sci-fi moves of the 50s and 60s but this is very real.
“We filmed at several of the meetings that have been held about the Tesco plan, including the big public meeting at Holmfirth Methodist Church.
“We also spoke to many local business people who have strong views on the proposed development.
“We approached Tesco and spoke to their communications manager Deborah Hayeems and we have got the views of people who support their plans.
“The key is that this is an unfinished project; there is no decision yet on whether or not the supermarket should go ahead.
“It would be good to come back in the weeks and months ahead and finish it with a decision one way or another”.
The film screening will be followed by a question and answer session in the pub.
Tesco’s plans have been opposed by many people who fear it will drive trade out of the centre of Holmfirth. But many others have backed the store plans, pointing out that Holmfirth needs another supermarket.
