"We were very sad to hear that so many lost stock in the Sony warehouse fire, and would like to do whatever we can to help support the stores that supported us," says Audrey Ewell, director and producer of acclaimed documentary Until The Light Takes Us. The film, which explores the origins of the Norwegian black metal scene and came out in cinemas last year, was supported by many independent record shops who promoted it for free. Now Audrey and her partner Aaron Aites want to return the favour by offering free screenings of their film to stores which were damaged in the recent riots.
"We’re not British and we’re not going to spout off on this," says Audrey, stressing that she doesn't want to pass judgement on the riots. "We’re independent, and we know what this sort of blow feels like to other independents. We may not have money to donate, but we have our film." Alongside the screenings, her company will be offering advance copies of the documentary, which is due to be released on DVD next month. Any shop wishing to take her up on the offer should email info@blackmetalmovie.com Fans can attend the first free screening at Rough Trade East on the 26th of August.
Audrey's effort is among a number of grassroots initiatives aimed at helping small businesses and local residents affected by the riots.