"Tackle Shop" - REVIEW
The Lost World Of Mr. Hardy tells the story of the Hardy tackle company by way of glorious archive films and photographs, and interviews with current and retired Hardy workers, with contributions from modern independent craftsmen, notably reel maker Chris Lythe and rod maker Edward Barder. It is nostalgic and romantic. On one level an historic record, on another a lament for lost manufacturing prowess. From the 1870s and the founding Hardy brothers office man William Hardy and factory man John James we are introduced to footage of LR Hardy, managing director for almost half a century, who is described as a short, full man and quite grumpy , and Jim Hardy, who was a bit la de posh when he joined the company as an apprentice on the factory floor. The development of famous tackle is traced, including the Perfect reel and the 7 ft C C de France rod, the Zane reel and the introduction of fibreglass rods, including a fascinating aside about Dick Walkers questionable and costly input.
Most poignant are the old craftsmen whose 40 plus years service in the Hardy cast shop, gut shop or foundry are fondly remembered. In interviews they are like reminiscing old soldiers. Ken Middlemist, last of the fly shop, is one of few fly dressers today who still ties fully dressed salmon flies without a vice. Once, Hardy tied flies for Churchill, the Queen and maharajahs. It employed 90 fly tyers (Ken prefers the word dressers ) but then industrial consultants suggested that the use of vices would free hands and improve productivity...[edited for spoilers]
... Two features provide continuity and haunt the film: as well as narrating and talking directly to camera, Jim Hardy is filmed from afar, a solitary figure walking the busy modern streets of Alnwick, pausing to peer at former Hardy premises; and then there is the films sad score of piano, cello and flute the perfect, wistful accompaniment to grainy archive footage.
Simply, you are left wanting more. This is a beautiful film, several cuts above much angling viewing, and one that could be broadcast on mainstream television. Essential, although not cheap.
©
Richard Baker, Trout & Salmon magazine
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