New Documentary Derek vs Derek Brings Farming’s Biggest Debate to the Big Screen

Award-winning director James Dawson’s new documentary Derek vs Derek is set in the rolling hills of Devon, telling the story of two neighbouring farmers who share a name but take radically different approaches to land use. Through humour and occasional tension, the film shines a light on the vital debate surrounding the future of rural Britain, encouraging conversation around how productive farming and nature restoration might work alongside each other.

Derek vs Derek also explores the complexities of modern farming, highlighting the pressures facing farmers, from climate change to economic uncertainty.

The film’s central protagonist is Derek Banbury, a self-proclaimed intensive dairy farmer who has spent more than five decades building a productive, family-run farm business. For Banbury, farming is about efficiency, producing food and working the land with one clear goal: feeding the nation.

Over the hedge is Derek Gow, a former sheep farmer now focused on a large-scale nature restoration project. Known for reintroducing native species, including beavers, Gow is creating habitats designed to support wildlife recovery. His decision to step away from traditional farming has caused concern among neighbouring farmers, particularly after previously describing farming as “a miserable business”.

The relationship between the two men sits at the heart of the film. Their exchanges, sometimes heated and often humorous, reflect a genuine clash of views, alongside a shared connection to the land. As wildlife begins to return and the landscape changes, both men are forced to respond to the new reality.

An ambitious nationwide screening campaign aims to take these conversations directly into farming communities to create space for open discussion and shared understanding.

The Derek vs Derek team are seeking support to help bring the film to farming communities across the UK through funding, sponsorship, and screening opportunities, including volunteers to host and support local screenings. To register your interest and to join the newsletter please visit derekvsderek.com/screenings.

As part of a campaign driving change for farming and nature, the team behind the documentary are pushing to get the film to farmers this summer ahead of its general release at cinemas in the Autumn. Alongside farmer screenings they’ll also be fundraising for The Farming Community Network (FCN) to support their vital work across the UK.

Subject to funding, the film will begin touring farming communities from July, ahead of a wider cinema release in September / October.