The world of virtual reality (VR) is about to get a whole lot more Welsh. A groundbreaking VR experience, Ôl | Haunts, is set to make waves on the international stage, becoming the first Welsh language VR work ever to be selected for competition at the prestigious Venice International Film Festival. This marks a significant milestone for Welsh immersive storytelling, showcasing the power of VR to transport audiences to different worlds and evoke deep emotions.
What makes Ôl | Haunts truly remarkable is its ability to take viewers on a nostalgic journey back to 2006, twenty years ago. The experience is set in Llanberis, a rural former slate town in North Wales, and explores the youth culture of that era. It's a time when social media and technology were just beginning to take hold, and the experience captures the essence of that transformative period.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Ôl | Haunts is its bilingual nature. Narrated by Welsh stars Callum Scott-Howells (It’s a Sin) in English and Steffan Donnelly in Welsh, the experience offers a unique and inclusive perspective. This bilingual approach not only showcases the diversity of Welsh culture but also highlights the importance of language in VR storytelling.
The co-directors, Lucy Hammond and Tom Chetwode-Barton, have crafted a haunting and evocative experience. They wanted to evoke a deep sense of nostalgia in audiences, referencing the places, people, and music that stay with us long into our adulthood. The imagery of the youth culture of the time, set against the backdrop of the dark slate mountains and quarries of the area’s industrial past, is truly captivating.
Tom Chetwode-Barton, a BAFTA-nominated writer-director, brings his expertise to the project. His work often explores themes of class, regional culture, mythology, and gender, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The narration, written by Chetwode-Barton, further enhances the immersive experience, drawing viewers into the world of Llanberis.
The production is a testament to the Wales Millennium Centre’s commitment to creating new work within the immersive field and supporting Welsh artists. David Massey, Creative Technology and Storytelling Senior Producer at Wales Millennium Centre, emphasizes the importance of immersive storytelling in their program. The annual Annwn Prize and new commissions, including a co-production coming to their 2027 season, further solidify their dedication to this art form.
The VR studio, Dreaming Methods, led by Judi Alston and Andy Campbell, played a crucial role in the concept development and immersive creative. With music by Welsh artists Super Furry Animals, John Cale, and High Contrast, Ôl | Haunts takes audiences on a multi-sensory journey. The Wales Broadcast Archive, a National Library of Wales project, provides extensive material from BBC Cymru Wales, ITV Cymru Wales, and S4C, adding authenticity and depth to the experience.
Ôl | Haunts is not just a VR experience; it's a cultural phenomenon. It showcases the power of VR to transport audiences to different worlds, evoke emotions, and preserve cultural heritage. The selection for the Venice International Film Festival is a testament to its quality and significance, and it will undoubtedly spark curiosity and excitement among VR enthusiasts and film enthusiasts alike.
As the world eagerly awaits the international premiere of Ôl | Haunts, one thing is clear: Welsh immersive storytelling is on the rise. This groundbreaking experience is a shining example of the creativity and talent coming out of Wales, and it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world of VR and beyond. So, get ready to embark on a nostalgic journey through time and space with Ôl | Haunts, and experience the magic of Welsh VR storytelling.
