Margot Films and J6 Films are proud to present Mark Warmington’s documentary feature film, Harder Than The Rock.
After its Crucible Theatre World Premiere at the prestigious Sheffield DocFest in June, hosted by renowned filmmaker and DJ Don Letts, the film received a standing ovation from the crowd. Harder Than The Rock has been released in UK cinemas this October, in line with the UK’s Black History Month.
The film chronicles the incredible journey of Britain’s first reggae band, Cimarons. Formed by teenage Jamaican immigrants in a London bus shelter in 1967, the band was at the forefront of the reggae explosion in the 1970s. Thousands of miles from Jamaica, they brought excitement, experimentation, and sheer anticipation to Black British youth, connecting them to their roots and identity through their powerful music.
Cimarons collaborated with industry legends such as Bob Marley, Toots & the Maytals, Jimmy Cliff, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, and even Paul McCartney. Despite their significant contributions, the band has been largely under-recognized for their music, impact, and legacy. The film poignantly captures their history and follows their final chapter, when, despite losing their beloved drummer Maurice Ellis to cancer, they dream of performing to live audiences – one last time.
Discussing the movie Film director Mark Warmington, shares,“It’s been an absolute honour to have Cimarons entrust me to tell their story, which started in 1967 and continues to the present day. If ever a band had an excuse to be bitter and resentful of the music industry, I think Cimarons would be top of the list. The way those guys have been exploited is obscene, but they’ve persevered with dedication, humour and, above all, a commitment and love for reggae music. I’m delighted that this documentary is now going some way to getting them the recognition they deserve.”
Discussing the movie Film director Mark Warmington, shares,“It’s been an absolute honour to have Cimarons entrust me to tell their story, which started in 1967 and continues to the present day. If ever a band had an excuse to be bitter and resentful of the music industry, I think Cimarons would be top of the list. The way those guys have been exploited is obscene, but they’ve persevered with dedication, humour and, above all, a commitment and love for reggae music. I’m delighted that this documentary is now going some way to getting them the recognition they deserve.”.
From North East-based production companies Margot Films and J6 Films, Harder Than The Rock is released in UK Cinemas with support from BFI Doc Society, awarding National Lottery funding, and NE Screen.
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