We Wunt be Druv is regarded as the unofficial county motto of Sussex, meaning “we will not be driven” alluding our county’s people have minds of their own and are incredibly strong willed.
Last year, film maker and University of Surrey graduate Martin Kadiev made a documentary film titled with the same motto where he explored the revolutionary side of Lewes, interviewing key members of our town and highlighting just how strongly engaged the people of Lewes are with their community.
CommunityAd caught up with Martin to find out more…
Can you give readers a brief summary of We Wunt be Druv?
It’s a documentary exploring themes of independence and community in Lewes.
What inspired you to have the idea of filming a documentary in Lewes?
There was so much material on Lewes online that it showed people were proud to be citizens of the town. There are stories about the place and people have considered sharing them with others. As we kept exploring, we kept seeing themes – Bonfire Night, Harvey’s, The Depot. There is a sense of community but there is also a unique flavour of being yourself and doing your own thing.
What was your biggest take away from making the film and engaging with the people of Lewes?
When we were first deciding on a place, we had a long list of potential interviewees in Lewes. We managed to get everyone we wanted. I am humbled that people chose to spend their time with us. My take away is that for the most part, people are helpful creatures. It’s okay to ask for help and it’s okay to allow others to help you.
Right now, more than ever, communities need to come together to support one another. Did you feel through filming and mixing with locals, that Lewes has that strong community spirit?
I would say so. From people waving to each other across the road, to chit chats with familiar faces in Lansdown. But of course, how apparent community seems for one or the other is up to how much someone interacts with it. With that regard I am absolutely in worship of Bonfire and how that is able to bring people together to a common goal. To create something tangible, memorable and worthwhile – with others!
What did you enjoy most about filming We Wunt be Druv?
Sitting down opposite someone new and having the time to listen to their story and find out about them. I am very grateful for everyone who took part and allowed me to connect with them. Listening and sharing with others is something we can do more of. It can be with a friend, neighbour or even better – someone new.
Do you have any film ideas in the pipeline for the future?
I’ve submitted a proposal to Netflix for their short documentary fund to make a doc focused exclusively on Harvey’s.