AofA's Hot To Trot Talking Points

Every Friday

Oh so amid the delight that the sun has brought in Britain, we’ve been discussing the film of the brilliant novel The Salt Path - will it be any good or not - patronising behaviour towards us, oldsters and the 1960s underrated artist, Pauline Boty.

1. Will or won’t the film of The Salt Path live up to our expectations? There was a general outpouring of good will for this film. ‘The Salt Path is out in April. Looking forward to it even though films of books are often so dodgy.

   'The Salt Path is a 2024 British film directed by Marianne Elliott, adapted from Raynor Winn's acclaimed memoir. The screenplay, written by Rebecca Lenkiewicz, tells the poignant and inspiring true story of Raynor and Moth Winn, a couple whose lives are upended when they lose their home and livelihood due to financial ruin. Simultaneously, Moth is diagnosed with a degenerative and terminal illness, leaving them with no options but to face an uncertain future.

   Rather than succumbing to despair, the couple embarks on a 630-mile trek along the South West Coast Path, one of England’s most rugged and beautiful landscapes. With nothing but a tent and minimal resources, their journey becomes a story of resilience, love, and rediscovery. The breathtaking scenery serves as both a backdrop and a metaphor for their emotional and physical struggles, as they confront their past and forge a new path forward.

   The film stars Gillian Anderson as Raynor and Jason Isaacs as Moth, delivering deeply emotional performances that capture the couple's vulnerability and strength. Elliott's direction brings the raw beauty of the coast to life, making the environment a character in its own right. The film explores themes of loss, survival, and the healing power of nature, resonating with anyone who has faced adversity.

   Premiering at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, The Salt Path received critical acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling and stunning cinematography. It is set for a theatrical release in the United Kingdom on April 25, 2025. The film promises to be a moving adaptation of a beloved memoir, offering a story of hope and transformation that transcends personal tragedy.’

   

   2. Serious question here was discussed. It’s good to be aware of what is patronising when you’re older and what is not. Cute, we decided, is definitely patronising. As is ‘Ah bless’ despite the good intentions. Hospitals are another place one has to be ready to respond with a correction or else you’ll get the standard frailty questions. Have you been patronised?

3. Burning Spear - named Winston Rodney originally - photographed here by the very talented David Corio and celebrating his 80th birthday. Only this was taken 26 years ago so when he was in his 50s. But David says he’s still going strong and out there gigging. Good to hear.

   

   4. And then there was a puffin in the mix. I am enchanted by puffins and can’t believe they actually appear on the British coast although I know they do because I’ve seen them. This one appeared on Bempton Cliffs recently in Yorkshire. So great.

5. Lots of AofAers are going to this Open Mic event at the Colony Club in London on 31st March. We’ll be reading poems and prose. Do come along. Let the organiser know if you want to read. It will be fun. The Colony Club has moved from Soho to Mayfair.

6. Mark Baxter, the director of this documentary, is also a member of AofA. We have men in the group, lots of them. He has been trying to make this documentary for years on pop artist, Pauline Boty, who has stayed more or less unknown. Now there’s this documentary which is on i-player and really worth watching. She’s a contemporary of Hockney, and does wonderfully bold pop art.