A reflective documentary in collaboration with the Cowper & Newton Museum, commemorating 250 years of the hymn Amazing Grace, told through community voices.
Commissioned to mark the 250th anniversary of the hymn Amazing Grace, this 30-minute documentary was created in partnership with the Cowper & Newton Museum, and supported by Milton Keynes City Council and The Stables. Filmed in and around the village of Olney, where the hymn was originally written, the film blends historical context with contemporary voices—capturing a year of public events, personal reflections, and cultural celebration that highlight the enduring legacy of one of Britain’s most iconic spiritual songs.
Directed and shot by James Stier, the production was largely a solo effort, with additional footage captured by filmmaker Simon Beckett. A dual-camera setup using Sony FX3 and FX6 was paired with soft, naturalistic lighting to create a visually clean and intimate aesthetic. The result is a reflective, community-focused portrait that honours both the past and the present impact of Amazing Grace, crafted with care and shaped by those who keep its story alive today.









