September 18, 2023
By Harry Mottram: It’s a 77 year old mystery – the murder of Robert Parrington Jackson – the 33-year-old manager of the Odeon cinema in Union Street, Bristol. And now a film of the crime is to be premiered in Bath in a glittering red carpet event at the Little Cinema in Bath.
Bristol based film director Alfie Skinner is screening his film Shot In The Dark about the murder on Monday, September 25, 2023 at 6:20pm, with an invite to residents and film fans to attend the special event.
Cinema manager Robert Parrington Jackson was shot twice at close range on the night of 29 May 1946, in his office at the Odeon by an unknown assailant and died later in hospital. Incredibly there were around 2,000 patrons in the theatre at the time as they watch the movie The Light that Failed – and remarkably they were unaware of the gun shots.
The 1939 film made by Paramount, starring Ronald Colman as Heldar, with Muriel Angelus, Ida Lupino, and Walter Huston was based on a novel of unrequited love by Rudyard Kipling. War artist Dick is in love with childhood sweetheart Maisie and despite his infatuation the relation ends in tragedy.
Alfie Skinner’s film recreates the night of the unsolved murder which he describes as being, “…filled with thrills, suspense, and entertainment. Experience the magic of movies as we showcase this captivating story, that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a fan of action, mystery, or drama, this event has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy this incredible film with fellow movie and history enthusiasts and keynote speakers who will discuss and answer questions about how the film was made.”
The murder has not been solved although a well known Bristol criminal Billy ‘The Fish’ Fisher was reported to have made a death bed confession in 1993. Initially it was assumed theft of the cinema takings was the motive but no cash was stolen and so it remains a mystery to this day.
Residents can watch the film for free along with the Q&A session afterwards by booking a ticket at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/shot-in-the-dark-screening-tickets-699064098537?aff=oddtdtcreator
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Harry Mottram is a freelance journalist. Follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Telegram, TikTok and Email:harryfmottram@gmail.com
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