Bring Dic Penderyn's Story to the Big Screen

Aim

Help bring the true story of Dic Penderyn and the Merthyr Uprising to the big screen through Iniquity - 'The People's Film'.

HELP BRING THE STORY OF DIC PENDERYN TO THE BIG SCREEN

with Iniquity - 'The People's Film'

A Welsh Story. A Global Movement.

In 1831, a young Welsh labourer named Richard Lewis  (better known as Dic Penderyn) was executed for a crime that many people believe he was innocent of.

Nearly 200 years later, his story remains one of the most powerful, moving and important stories in Welsh history.

Yet outside Wales, very few people have ever heard his name.

We believe that needs to change.

That is why Calon Films are creating Iniquity – a major feature film telling the true story of Dic Penderyn and the events of the Merthyr Uprising in 1831.

Today, we are inviting you to become part of that journey.

WHO WAS DIC PENDERYN?

Dic Penderyn was a husband, father and working-class man from Aberafan whose life became forever linked to one of the most significant moments in British history.

During the Merthyr Uprising of 1831, thousands of ordinary people stood together against poverty, injustice and exploitation.

In the aftermath of those events, Dic Penderyn was arrested, tried and executed.

Many historians believe he was innocent and made a scapegoat by the authorities at the time.

His story has become a symbol of courage, sacrifice and injustice. Universal themes, that transcend borders.

It is a story that belongs not only to Wales, but to the world.

Iniquity is about far more than making a film.

It is about ensuring that future generations understand:

• Who Dic Penderyn was

• Why the Merthyr Uprising matters

• The role Wales played in shaping modern history

• The importance of standing together in the face of adversity

At a time when many communities are searching for connection, identity and purpose, we believe stories like this have never been more relevant.

What began as a community theatre project has evolved into something far bigger.

The story has received national media attention, attracted thousands of supporters and brought people together from across Wales and beyond.

The project has been championed by historians, creatives, public figures, community groups, Members of both Houses of the UK Parliament and the Welsh Senedd. But most importantly it has galvanized 'The People' who believe that this story deserves to be told on the world stage.

Today, Calon Films is working alongside an ever-growing community of supporters to bring Iniquity to life. Making it . . . 'The People's Film!'

WHY WE ARE CROWDFUNDING

Like Dic Penderyn himself, we believe in the power of good people coming together to achieve extraordinary things.

Crowdfunding gives everyone the opportunity to become part of this story.

It allows the people from Wales and around the world to help ensure that this important chapter of our history is finally brought to the screen.

Most importantly, it allows this film to remain rooted in the community that inspired it.

This is not simply a film being made for the people.

This is a film being made with the people.

HOW THE MONEY WILL BE USED

Funds raised through this campaign will be used to support the continued development and production of Iniquity, including:

• Pre-production and development costs

• Cast and crew recruitment

• Location preparation

• Historical research and consultation

• Production design, costumes and props

• Equipment and filming costs

• Post-production and editing

• Distribution and audience engagement

Every contribution, regardless of size, helps move the project one step closer to production.

MORE THAN A FILM

Alongside the film itself, this project has inspired wider conversations about Welsh heritage, identity and the preservation of history.

Many of our supporters are also involved in efforts to celebrate and protect the legacy of Dic Penderyn for future generations.

The story is bringing people together in ways we never imagined.

That is why Iniquity has now become known as  .  .  .

'The People's Film'

JOIN US

For nearly two centuries, the story of Dic Penderyn has survived because ordinary people refused to let it be forgotten.

Now we have an opportunity to share that story with the world.

Whether you can pledge £5 or £5,000, your support genuinely makes a difference.

Together, we can ensure that one of Wales' greatest untold stories finally receives the audience it deserves.

Join us.

Support Iniquity.

Help bring the story of Dic Penderyn to the big screen.

Diolch yn fawr iawn.

Calon Films

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 8th November 2026 at 6:22am