SINK OR SKIM

The Unexpected Depths of Stone Skimming

The seemingly simple act of skimming a stone across water holds a surprising depth, evolving into a captivating and intensely competitive sport. “Sink or Skim,” the acclaimed 2019 documentary, invites viewers to dive into this quirky, yet surprisingly profound world. 

Initially, the concept of a documentary about stone skimming might elicit scepticism, as acknowledged by Steve Carson, BBC Scotland’s Head of Multi-Platform Commissioning, who noted the initial public reaction: “I can’t believe they’re doing something about stone skimming.” However, this initial doubt quickly transformed into genuine appreciation from viewers. The documentary was the highest-performing program across all of Scotland’s digital channels on its premiere night, leading to its subsequent uplift to BBC One’s ‘Our Lives’ series in a prime-time slot. 

Watch “Sink or Skim”

Dive deep into the unforgettable world of “Sink or Skim” and experience the unexpected passion, intense rivalries, and vibrant community spirit of the World Stone Skimming Championships for yourself. The film is a compelling reminder that the most captivating narratives often lie where one least expects them. Watch the trailer below, and the full film on BBC iPlayer:

A Glimpse into a Hidden World

At its core, “Sink or Skim” explores the dedication, rivalries, and unique personalities striving for the coveted title of “World’s Best Tosser” at the World Stone Skimming Championships. The film delves into the “esoteric world of competition skimming and the devoted individuals who call themselves the ‘Elite'”. It reveals the hidden passions and intense commitment required to master this seemingly simple art, showcasing what it truly takes to become a top competitor. 

The Epicenter: Easdale Island and the WSSC

The Spiritual Home of Stone Skimming

A small Scottish island with a remarkable history; Easdale’s industrial past, centred around slate mining, came to an abrupt end with a devastating storm. This inadvertently created the perfect conditions for a new tradition: water filled the immense quarries, transforming them into what is now known as the “world’s first stone skimming arena“. The island is uniquely “blessed with millions of perfect skimming stones,” naturally formed Easdale slate, which are essential for the sport.

The profound connection between Easdale’s distinctive geology and the sport of stone skimming is a central theme of the documentary. The island is not merely a backdrop but an integral part of the sport’s identity, often referred to as its “irrefutable spiritual home”. This deep bond with the environment shapes the competition itself, creating a dynamic interplay between the natural limitations of the 63-metre quarry and the abilities of the skimmers. The documentary highlights that some competitors embrace the island’s constraints, while others seek to push beyond them.

The Skimmers: Personalities, Passions, and Rivalries

The Elite Tossers

“Sink or Skim” truly comes alive through its focus on the “obsessed skimmers” who dedicate themselves to mastering this unique sport. The documentary delves into their personal journeys, rivalries, and what it truly takes to earn the coveted title of “Top Tosser” in this competitive world. These individuals bring a rich tapestry of personalities and motivations to the championships.

Tradition vs. Ambition

The documentary skilfully portrays the clash between tradition and ambition, neatly divided into two opposing viewpoints. This portrayal transforms the documentary from a mere chronicle of a sport into a compelling human drama.

The film captures universal themes of how tradition can clash with the desire for progress, the balance between community values and individual aspirations, and the inherent challenges faced by any grassroots activity as it gains wider recognition.

The Visionaries behind “Sink or Skim”

Melt the Fly

The creative force behind “Sink or Skim” is Melt the Fly, the production company responsible for bringing this unique story to the screen. The film holds a special significance for the company, as it was their first televised film. Melt the Fly operates with a distinct philosophy: they specialise in “creative storytelling,” meticulously researching a subject from every intersection. This intentional and artistic approach to filmmaking, exemplified by “Sink or Skim,” distinguishes Melt the Fly and highlights the thoughtful craftsmanship that went into making a seemingly niche subject so universally engaging.

The Creative Minds

“Sink or Skim” was co-directed by Will Hewitt and Austen McCowan. Will Hewitt also served as the Editor and Cinematographer for the film. Reflecting on the production, Hewitt described it as “one of the most fun years of my career,” humorously adding that he became “quite good at stone skimming too”. Based in Edinburgh, Scotland, Hewitt is an accomplished documentary director and editor, recognised as a recipient of the prestigious Grierson/Netflix DocLab scheme and named a Broadcast Magazine Hotshot of 2023. The production team also included Assistant Producer Lizzie MacKenzie, Sound Design by James Buchan Wright, Sound Recordist Richard Gott, and Production Assistants Anna Tumurova, Josh Bumphrey, and Peter Holgate.

Critical Acclaim

The documentary achieved significant success upon its release. It was the highest performing programme across all of Scotland’s digital channels on its premiering night. Steve Carson, BBC Scotland’s Head of Multi-Platform Commissioning, lauded the film, stating that while it was “not a subject many channels would have commissioned,” it was “a beautifully made piece, and it was funny watching it go out… But by the end of it the same people were going ‘That was really good'”.

Sink or Skim also garnered recognition on the film festival circuit, receiving official selections at several notable events:

• Oregon Documentary Film Festival (Canada, USA Premiere, Official Selection)
• Filmstock 13 (Luton, UK, Official Selection)
• Canada Shorts Film Festival (Canada, North American Premiere, Official Selection)

Watch “Sink or Skim”

Dive deep into the unforgettable world of “Sink or Skim” and experience the unexpected passion, intense rivalries, and vibrant community spirit of the World Stone Skimming Championships for yourself. The film is a compelling reminder that the most captivating narratives often lie where one least expects them. Watch the trailer below, and the full film on YouTube: