About
The Parkinson's Project follows climber and teacher Chris Hamper as he faces the challenges of his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. Despite tremors and a loss of motivation, climbing continues to give Chris a huge amount of joy, community, and also remains an activity that he is able to do, despite his Parkinson’s symptoms. As he nears the end of the disease’s "honeymoon" phase, Chris retires early to fully embrace his passion for climbing in Norway and Sheffield. This inspiring documentary showcases his relentless determination to push past limitations and live life on his own terms. Directed by Sheffield filmmaker Jess James.
Statement from the director
“Early in his climbing career, Chris Hamper climbed multiple iconic routes that had only been climbed by a handful of people previously - many of which are just minutes from my home in Sheffield. As a lifelong climber myself, I know first-hand how this sport isn’t just an activity - it is an all-consuming lifestyle. And Chris personifies this more than most - having spent his whole life climbing (and even building his family home in Norway next to a boulder project). Chris truly lives to climb!
The more I have learned about Chris’s climbing legacy and continued drive to climb - despite the effects of his Parkinson's - the more I am deeply motivated to tell his important and powerful story. The boundless courage and humour that Chris displays every day is inspirational. Our documentary seeks to shed light on this growing and complex disease, while celebrating the indomitable human spirit.
It has been an honour to work alongside Chris, capturing his story and experience with this disease. I hope that our film will raise important awareness about Parkinson's disease, but that it will also inspire and motivate others to find strength in the face of adversity... particularly through sport.”.
Meet the Team
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Jess James
DIRECTOR
A freelance Director, DOP and Photographer based in Sheffield and London. I’ve been making films for over a decade and have created films for a range of clients including the BBC, The Guardian, Vice, NME, Apple and Adidas.
I work primarily in the documentary film space, focusing on capturing interesting, inspirational, and visually beautiful human-led stories rooted in the natural world.
Visit my website: info@jessjames.uk
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Ellen Logan
PRODUCER
Based in Sheffield, I am a freelance producer and community engagement specialist focused on human-centred, issue-led stories that drive awareness and change.
With over a decade of experience in outreach, advocacy and large-scale campaigns, I work primarily with charities and not-for-profits to create films, events and projects that amplify underrepresented voices. For The Parkinsons Project documentary, I have led on funding, partnerships and public engagement.
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Will Cole
EDITOR
A Sheffield based freelance video editor with 10-years experience in editing in Adobe Premiere with strong knowledge of After Effects and Da Vinci.
I’ve worked on commercial projects, TVC’s, short films, music videos, online promos, corporate pitch/mood films and documentaries. I’ve worked in house at edit-houses, post-houses and agencies, working both remotely and in collaboration with directors/producers and creatives.
Visit my website willcolefilms.com
