Draft:In The Middle

In the Middle is a 2023 British documentary written, directed and produced by Greg Cruttwell. It follows a variety of match officials who share their stories and experiences as referees in grassroots football.

Content

Told from the centre of the playing field, In The Middle follows a diverse group of match officials as they attempt to cope with the rigours of running matches in grassroots football. Experienced or new to it, young or old, male, female or non-binary, these unsung heroes tell us about their passion for the game, about their lives outside of it and why they're drawn to the often thankless task of refereeing.

Production

The film was produced by Park the Bus, a Suffolk based production company founded by Greg Cruttwell which focuses on creating sport-related documentaries and dramas. Filming took place in grassroots football venues across the UK. The film was completed in May 2022.

Featuring

• Ron Clarkson
• Steve Earl
• Lucy Clark
• Dele Sotimirin
• Nigel Owen
• Alan Halfacre
• Kian Hill
• Elle Kapitz
• Cassandra McKoy
• Ann Marie Powell.

Release

The film was released in UK cinemas on the 31st March 2023 and on digital platforms on the 1st of May 2023. It is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and the Park the Bus YouTube Channel.

Reception

The documentary received positive reviews from critics. Rotten tomatoes reported an approval rating of 83% based on six reviews.

• The Reviews Hub said: “What makes the film so compelling is that, without a trace of sentimentality, it is a homage to happiness”.
• The Sunday Times reported that “It celebrates the pleasures of being part of a community and having a pastime you love”.
• The Guardian said: “This is a positive, feelgood film about the sense of purpose found in being part of a community, giving your time, getting stuck in”.
• The Arts Desk said: “Director Greg Cruttwell has a powerful radar for unforgettable characters”.