LOGLINE:
10 years after their father’s murder, the director embarks on a mission to find their father’s killer, while challenging the South African court system in pursuit of justice.
SYNOPSIS:
The Pursuit of Grief is an intimate South African documentary that explores trauma, loss, and the journey to recovery. It follows the filmmaker, Erin, whose father, Gavin Macpherson was killed ten years ago by a reckless driver while training for his next marathon race. His death shattered the family: his wife, Helen, spiralled into alcoholism and depression, and Erin developed PTSD and a debilitating fear of the road. This film is both a quest for justice and an exploration of Erin’s path toward healing, culminating in confronting their dad’s killer and reclaiming the road that has haunted them for over a decade.
The Pursuit of Grief is a powerful meditation on the lasting impact of reckless driving and the emotional toll it takes on families. Through Erin’s deeply personal story, the film aims to raise awareness towards the emotional and legal consequences of such tragedies, and inspire others to reconsider their relationship with the road to prevent further heartache. The film invites viewers to reflect on their own healing journey, and to challenge systems that fail to protect them, offering hope in the face of profound loss.
CAST & CREW
Director
Erin Macpherson
Cast
Erin Macpherson | Helen Sherriff | Gavin Macpherson |
Henry Diederiks
Cinematographer
Erin Macpherson | Dene McLeod
Archive Cinematographer
Helen Sherriff | Gavin Macpherson | Kevin Hill | Neil Tomlinson
Sound Recordist
Erin Macpherson
Editor
Erin Macpherson
Katica Harvath
Colour Grading
Sound Mix
SPECIFICATIONS
Project Type
Documentary
Genre
Autobiography | Investigative Drama
Runtime
Feature
Country of Origin
South Africa | Hungary | Belgium | Portugal
Language
English
Shooting Format
Digital
Aspect Ratio
4:3
Film Colour
B&W + Colour
Release Year
TBC
FESTIVALS & AWARDS
Verzio DocLab
Selected for Film Workshop
TRAILER COMING SOON
