Visions and dreams for how people would like the Isle of Man to look in the future will feature at a leading media festival later this year.

’Island Utopias’ has been nominated in the arts film category of the Celtic Media Festival.

The film was created by Sarah Mercer in the aftermath of the first lockdown and sought the ideas of ordinary people on how they would like the Isle of Man to develop in the future.

Many people were interviewed, with local artists creating works inspired by the themes thrown up during the interviews.

The film was given its premier at the Erin Arts Centre during September last year and, at the time of the premier, Sarah said that she initially didn’t know if the film would be shown in its full length again and has said that she is amazed by the nomination.

’Its unbelievable and totally unexpected,’ said Sarah.

’I didn’t even think about entering the film into festivals, as that wasn’t my intention behind it, but was asked to by Culture Vannin, as I created the project when I worked with them for a year.

’It was something that I produced to hopefully inspire people in the Isle of Man.

’I submitted the film and happily forgot about it, right up until I received a phone call from Breeshey and James from Culture Vannin, saying they had some amazing news for me.

’I am delighted, as it will help bring the film to a much wider audience.’

Sarah believes that the strength of the film lies in the messages recorded by people which, although spoken with the island in mind, contained many positive ideas that could resonate with many other communities worldwide.

’The nomination showed to me that the film contains a positive message that extends beyond the Isle of Man,’ she said.

’While the people featured are talking about the island and what they hope for in the future, there are themes and messages there that people from anywhere, no matter how big or small, can really relate to.

’Also, the film has a lot of different appeal for different people and it affected many people in completely different ways.

’Some people loved watching the artistic process happening, while others were moved or inspired by hearing the thoughts of people, read in their own voices.

’Ultimately I would like to take it globally’, she continued.

’Hopefully the film being part of such a big festival will help me get in touch with the right people and find the support and, more importantly, the funding to bring the film to a wider audience.’

More information on the ’Island Utopias’ film can be found at culturevannin.im

’Island Utopias’ can be seen at the Manx Legion club on Monday, June 28, from 7pm, with free admission.