Cornish Documentary The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay to Screen at Kendal Mountain Festival

A powerful new documentary filmed in Cornwall is heading to the world-renowned Kendal Mountain Festival this November.

The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay

The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay, directed by Dan Simpkins, follows a group of underground explorers known as the Carbis Bay Crew. Shot over two years, the film captures their shared passion for mine exploration while opening up conversations around men’s mental health.

Dan, inspired by Cornwall’s people and landscapes, spent weekends travelling from London to film the group before moving back to Cornwall for three months to fully embed himself in their world.

“Cornwall is where I’ve always felt most creatively connected,” said Dan. “This documentary is about more than a hobby—it’s about the complexities of masculinity, the search for purpose, and the importance of community. Focusing on the extraordinary lives of everyday people.”

Beyond Thrill-Seeking

Far from adrenaline junkies, the men featured are working-class, full of humour and character. For them, the mines provide a rare space for reflection and connection.

“They deflect with banter, but being underground demands presence,” explained Dan. “With their life literally depending on it as they abseil, climb and crawl through the perilous mines, they are forced into the moment, away from the pressures of daily life.”

At a cast screening, the Carbis Bay Crew saw their world portrayed with honesty and respect. For many, it was the first time their families understood why they spent hours underground.

Pat, a member of the group, said:
“I’d like people to take away that the reasons for these strange pastimes might be far more complex than you originally might imagine. The documentary is now like a time capsule; we’ll all be able to look back on a snapshot in time. None of us are getting any younger and we’ll have this beautiful record.”

Tackling Men’s Mental Health

Dan’s motivation stemmed from his own experiences with mental health challenges. Recognising the healing power of shared experiences, he partnered with MANUP?, an organisation that challenges stigma and encourages men to speak openly.

CEO and Founder Dan Somers said:
“The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay captures what we see at MANUP? That real connection doesn’t always happen in a therapy room. It happens in the quiet, the risk, the humour between men who feel unseen. Projects like this don’t just raise awareness, they show men they’re not broken – they just haven’t been heard yet.”

A Creative Team Effort

Producer Kirsty Malcolm joined the project to support its growth. She said:
“This story is full of heart, humour, and humanity, and I know it will resonate with many people. As someone who lost their father to mental health struggles, I know just how crucial it is that we speak openly, honestly, and without shame. I hope this film encourages more men to share their fears, hopes, and dreams—and reminds them that their ordinary lives are often extraordinary, especially in the eyes of those who love them, even when they can’t see it themselves.”

Editor Angus Breton, a close friend of Dan since their days at Falmouth University, played a vital role in shaping the story. “Loneliness and disconnection are huge issues in the UK right now, and I think it’s really powerful to see a group finding real connection through something they love,” he said.

Support also came from technicians like Richard Butler at Falmouth University, who offered professional sound mixing and mentorship, praising the filmmakers’ drive in a changing industry.

What’s Next for the Film

The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay has already been submitted to more than 20 festivals, with the Kendal Mountain Festival marking a major milestone.

This year’s festival, celebrating its 45th anniversary, will feature over 300 speakers, 150 films and welcome 25,000 outdoor enthusiasts. The documentary aligns with the 2025 theme of ‘Hope’ and will be shown as part of The Underground Session – presented by Petzl at the Kendal Town Hall Assembly Room on Friday, 21st November 2025, 7:30 PM GMT.

The production team is now inviting festivals, broadcasters and distributors to connect with them to help bring the story to wider audiences.