The Axe Forgets: The Infamous Jameson Affair Revisited

A ghastly act best forgotten from the late 19th century finds its way to the screens in this 18:36-minute-long film of writer-director John Christopher. Dark, unforgiving and chillingly voyeuristic, the film is crafted to near perfection. Right from its opening scene, it promises to transport one in time. Set against the backdrop of the Jameson Affair that revolved around James Sligo Jameson’s sepulchral interests in cannibalism, The Axe Forgets is gripping, visceral and riveting.

A self-styled naturalist, and heir to the Jameson Whiskey Dynasty from Scotland, James Sligo Jameson has found his calling in the travels. After a year-long expedition to the Congo, he returns haunted with memories of his sojourn. Christopher understands the pulse of filmmaking. There’s an unmistakable voyeurism to this film, right from its lighting to cinematography (Naoise Kettle) that brings this tale set in 1888 to life. Harry Butler who plays the titular character is transcendental in his performance. So consuming is his performance that one tends to forget the time as the credits begin to roll in.

The credit goes to the writing of the film that leaves little room for error. Right from the production design (Victoria Alexandra Carney) to the makeup (Roisin Murphy) and costumes designed by Anna O’Doherty, what we have is a crew that is dedicated to doing justice to the subject and art of storytelling. Based on a true story that led to several protests amongst the ornithologists, the film sticks to a sliver of the tale. Jameson has returned from his extensive travel and he brings with him the shards of the events that he witnessed. But with deft narration and within its short timeline, editor Joe Rigby gives a crisp cut to the film. Add to that the music composed by Ben J Connolly, what we get is a cinematic indulgence seldom seen in this genre and time period.

Jameson is tormented by the ghosts of his past and he doesn’t let us forget them either. The stunning visual display that is both deathly and shockingly arresting is well captured through stills and sketches. The unforgiving wounds of his actions are soon metaphorically experienced by the character, and as an audience we are driven with a frenzy to uncover the truth–as unforgiving as it may be.

Christopher’s The Axe Forgets is an indulgence that everyone must partake in. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional, the short offers plenty of takeaways. A masterclass in itself, The Axe Forgets is historical, gnawing and unforgettable.

Highly recommended!

Watch The Axe Forgets Short Film Trailer