Big Smooth

Great film which reminds us that it's not about the size of your physical being, your wallet or your renown but the size of your heart and the way you impact positively on the lives of those you meet that means the most.

Brings to light a local (Durham, UK) man who had a global impact and touched the lives of everyone he met; followed his dreams and could pivot when needed to whether that be to score hoops, a movie or to make someone smile.

Watched the premiere with my family and my son said that Neil teaches us to believe in ourselves and that has to be a great take away for a 10 year old x.

I went to the premier of Big Smooth last night and didn't know what to expect. I found out about a man who went to my school in Durham, and played basketball with my husband in the 90's. I was amazed with the life Neil led and the person he clearly was. The way he touched people and made a difference to their lives is a real legacy and it's wonderful someone has memorialized him so well. It was amazing how much research, groundwork, and detail went into this piece of work. The interviews were awesome and the content had my attention and interest transfixed. Paul and Richard have created an impressive, professional and touching documentary film. I'm really pleased I went to watch it and would highly recommend.

Big Smooth is a stunning documentary that has truly captured the beauty within such a wonderful, larger than life character. Sensitive storytelling at its best!

We see the highs and lows all while being taken on an emotional journey of discovery with real attention to detail throughout. The transatlantic element really brings some great characters to the screen and the interviewees talk so passionately about Neil. The enthusiasm is infectious.

The music, the footage, the editing, the whole tone of this documentary was simply wonderful. Amazing documentary that has the power to really inspire others.

Being best friends with Neil from a young age I expected to be biased or even critical of the documentary, but I had no reason to be any of these. Being either involved or part of Neil's life growing up and spending time together as mates whenever possible (between Neil's travels and work) I was apprehensive of how the film would portray Neil and the life he had. On watching the Premier I was blown away by the sett out and content that Paul Stainthorpe and the team have used and produced a great, true, funny and emotional documentary.

Before the film started Paul Stainthorpe introduced everyone and stated "if you feel like laughing, then laugh - If you feel like whooping, then whoop and if you feel like crying, then cry". What he should of stated is "when you laugh - when you whoop and when you cry" because this is guaranteed when watching this true, funny and emotional film.

Brilliant work and a must watch.

I was fortunate to attend the fantastic premiere of #BigSmoothFilm at the Gala Theatre in Durham. It was a packed house, and the crowd were on the edge of their seats.

Big Smooth is an inspiring tale of kindness, humanity, self-belief and more. The story is well set out, the interviews are clear, the sound crisp and transitions between scenes slick.

I found the film a moving experience and a joy to watch. My thanks go to Paul Stainforth and all involved in supporting this fantastic film. A special mention must also go to the Fingleton family for letting this great story be screened.

I encourage you to watch Big Smooth whenever you have a chance.