EIFF 2014: Garnet’s Gold

Film Review by Michelle Devereaux | 25 Jun 2014
Film title: Garnet’s Gold
Director: Ed Perkins
Starring: Garnet Frost

In Ed Perkin’s documentary Garnet’s Gold, a peculiar man with an improbable name, Garnet Frost, sets out on the quest of his life, a quixotic journey to uncover the forgotten booty of Bonnie Prince Charlie, supposedly buried somewhere deep within the mysterious, fog-shrouded Scottish Highlands way back in the 18th century.

With his dented nose and tobacco-stained moustache, the 58-year-old Garnet’s appearance resembles both pugilist and professor, and the same could be said for his attitude: whether waxing philosophic about missed opportunities or reciting self-penned poetry, Garnet still has plenty of fight left in him as he approaches old age. He cuts a fascinating figure, but Garnet’s Gold isn’t quite up to the task of providing the arc he requires. It’s full of gorgeous, meditative shots of Highland scenery, but its meandering focus leaches a sense of urgency. Garnet’s invalid mother, still feisty at 90, actually provides the film’s most poignant scenes, painting a wistful, powerful picture as she looks back on the totality of her life.

Garnet's Gold has its European Premiere at Edinburgh International Film Festival

25 Jun, 8.25pm, Cineworld

28 Jun, 1.30pm, Odeon

http://www.edfilmfest.org.uk/films/2014/garnets-gold