In the Middle (film)
In the Middle is a 2023 British documentary written, directed and produced by Greg Cruttwell. It follows a variety of match officials who share their stories and experiences as referees in grassroots football.
Featuring
- Ron Clarkson
- Steve Earl
- Lucy Clark
- Dele Sotimirin
- Nigel Owen
- Alan Halfacre
- Kian Hill
- Elle Kapitz
- Cassandra McKoy
- Ann Marie Powell.
Production
The film was produced by Park the Bus, a Suffolk based production company founded by Greg Cruttwell which focuses on creating sport-related documentaries and dramas. Filming took place in grassroots football venues across the UK. The film was completed in May 2022.[1]
Release
The film was released in UK cinemas on the 31 March 2023 and on digital platforms on 1 May 2023. It is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.[2]
Reception
The documentary received positive reviews from critics. Rotten Tomatoes reported an approval rating of 83% based on six reviews.[3]
- The Reviews Hub said: “What makes the film so compelling is that, without a trace of sentimentality, it is a homage to happiness”.[4]
- The Guardian said: “This is a positive, feelgood film about the sense of purpose found in being part of a community, giving your time, getting stuck in”.[2]
- The Arts Desk said: “Director Greg Cruttwell has a powerful radar for unforgettable characters”.[5]
References
- ↑ "In The Middle". Park The Bus. Retrieved 2026-07-23.
- 1 2 Clarke, Cath (2023-03-28). "In the Middle review – referees in grassroots English football take centre stage". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 2026-07-31.
- ↑ "In the Middle | Rotten Tomatoes". www.rottentomatoes.com. Retrieved 2026-07-23.
- ↑ Film, The Reviews Hub- (2023-03-31). "In the Middle". The Reviews Hub. Retrieved 2026-07-31.
- ↑ "In the Middle review - the true grit of grassroots referees". www.theartsdesk.com. Retrieved 2026-07-31.
External links