A filmmaker from London is bridging the gap between cinema and boxing. Award-winning film director and producer Anthony Vander launches SPAR
Vander, an accomplished director and producer whose debut feature Sweetboy premiered at the American Black Film Festival back in 2014, co-produced the pilot episode of Spar, following the short film version in 2020.
Spar stars Nicola Roffe (Fast Girls) alongside Edwin De La Renta (Pretty Red Dress, Bharat), Andre Fyffe (Casualty), and 2023 BAFTA nominee Jordan Pitt. The episode is written by Vander and Kate Napoli, and is produced by actor Mavin Rasheed (Professor T, The Power).
Vander cited director Rapman as one of his inspirations whilst creating Spar.
“He (Rapman) has a fresh approach to storytelling as well as strong representation in all his creations. It’s incredibly inspiring and the blueprint for success. I went out and made Spar because I had to create my own yes, plus no one in the UK has ever done a boxing show like this before.
After its premiere Spar will tour in boxing gyms in the London area. Vander highlighted the importance of raising awareness for grassroots boxing.
“We want to spotlight boxing gyms up and down the country. A lot of gyms are struggling due to lack of support. It’s more than a sport. Boxing emphasises discipline, self-control and community. If things remain the same, a generation of community could be lost.”
Vander is seeking out investors to push the vision of Spar even further. “With Spar, we have a franchise that is for boxing. I like to think of it as The Bear meets Cobra Kai. We welcome co-productions and investors.”
The Spar pilot will premier in November 2024.
