Set in Stone
Synopsis: The film charts the routes of arguably the world’s greatest traditional climber, Dave Birkett. ‘Set in Stone’ charts Dave’s remarkable passion for climbing and the pursuit for a magical line on his beloved Lakeland crags. Featuring the first ascent of ‘Return of the King’ E9 6c, Dave’s latest addition to Scafell’s East Buttress – just one of many Lakeland masterpieces including the extraordinary “Nowt Burra Flee’in Thing” (E8 6c) – Cam Crag, Wasdale Screes; a stunningly evocative line. All filmed using innovative techniques, including ‘The Brief History of Birkett ‘ animation which covers the 70 year Birkett family legacy.
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Starring
Directed by
David Halsted
Prod. Company
Director's Statement
The 2005 collaboration between adventure film makers Alastair Lee and David Halsted has become one of the most significant British climbing films in years.
Director's Bio
Alastair Lee is a director and camera man specializing in the outdoor world. Twenty years in the industry he is a veteran of expeditions to the likes of Baffin Island, the Venezuelan jungle and Antarctica. Producing award winning films and TV commercials with stunning photography his special talent for combining the spectacular with the human have made him one of the leading forces in his industry with over 100 international awards to his name.
Not to be confused with the disposable ‘adrenaline’ fueled clips that dominate social media Alastair’s work is born of a deeper understanding and respect for the mountain world where a genuine passion and will to preserve these extraordinary environments is at the heart of Alastair’s work. Exploration, not only of the wild places to the furthest corners of the earth but also of the human condition. Delving into the complex psychology of the paradox of a modern person’s desire to challenge themselves in the natural arena. The quest not just for the summit but the search for purpose and meaning amongst the ever-increasing western safety and comfort.
Alastair has embraced the full gambit of modern devices at the film makers disposal, from drones to jibs to Cineflex camera systems and 4k slow motion shooting. However Alastair is also acutely aware that the ‘eye-candy’ means nothing without a strong sense of narrative and human depth. Alastair’s consistent success at combining world class cinematography with his trade-mark humor are testament to his true love of his art and dedication to always doing the best job possible and continually attempting to eclipse his own high standards.
In May of 2013 Alastair was awarded one of the top awards in his industry, The Grand Prize from the International Mountain Film Alliance at the Trento Film Festival.
His work has also been broadcast on Discovery UK, National Geographic US and featured on the Red Bull Explorers series.
Awards
Kendall Mountain Film Festival - United Kingdom - 2005
People's Choice Award and Best Climbing Film
Sawtooth Mountain Film Festival - United States - 2007
Director's Choice Award
Mountain Film Festival Domzale - Slovenia - 2008
Best Film about Mountains, Sport and Adventure
Art & Tur Film Festival - Portugal - 2008
Best Mountain Film