My Dad

Please read my blog post: gopb.co/dad
Long planned but seemingly never able to do for various reasons (which I go into on my blog post) about my beloved dad, Arnie Bloom. The most important man in my life and of course to whom I owe my existence to (it's your fault dad!!)
Making a film about a loved one whilst you can must rank as one of the most important things one can do as a filmmaker. I have countless photos of dad and there are quite a few clips of video of him to when I have used him for video reviews etc but never have I actually gotten him talking on camera about who he is.
Sadly I still don't have children, maybe one day, but at least my sister does and although they know him very well, inevitably one day he will be just a memory/ photos on Facebook (or whatever is around then) to them.
I want them to be able to watch this long after he is gone and remember who their grandfather was and then to show their own children. I would give anything to have done this for my grandparents whilst they were alive but it wasn't something I ever thought about. It would be amazing to hear my great grandparents words telling me their stories as I never knew them.
After all documentaries are exactly what the words implies. To document something, and this film is to have a historical record of my father for future generations to see and of course for me to remember him after he has gone to the great golf course in the sky.
Please visit my blog post for more on this film, how I approached the subject, how I dealt with certain topics and decisions I made both in the what I used and didn't use plus what I used to help tell the story. Naturally a full explanation of the gear used, lights, tripod, sound, cameras and especially the use of the Kessler "Second Shooter" for the unmanned moving B-Camera.
Sony F55, Sony A7s with Atomos Shogun. Shot in 4K, edited in 4K. Not uploading in 4K for now.
BLOG POST: gopb.co/dad
Graded with James Miller's custom LUTS available from www.deluts.com
Colorista III (gopb.co/redgiant)
and Filmconvert. 10% off Film Convert: gopb.co/filmcon... code: bloom
Music courtesy of Music Bed gopb.co/musicbed

[@philipbloom]

My dad passed away on the 21st of January 2024. He had been ill for some time, but it was still sudden. We all miss him ever so much. Love you dad xxxx

[@Thevikingcam]

Love how your dads face lights up when he talks about your mum. Rest his soul. ❤

[@JohnyJSpencer]

So sorry to hear about you Dad buddy this is a really touching film it brought a tear to my eye all the best to you and your family during these hard times RIP Arnie 🙏🏼

[@BorisTheDefender]

What an incredible film to have forever. I wish I had done this with my Dad. My thoughts are with you.

[@chrispy104k]

Knowing that your dad has passed away made watching this all the more poignant. What a great story teller. I never knew him but I like him a lot. My sincere condolences Philip.

[@LukeAshton1]

Just watched this full video of a man I didn't even know and yet it drew me in the whole time, amazing.

[@billionbites]

I started interviewing my mum in 2012. Re-watching this has got me into trying to finally edit the piece! Thank you.

[@GaryNunn]

Just sat here thinking about all the things your Dad said. You've really captured his soul so well. Such fantastic memories. Lovely Phil, just lovely. Thanks for sharing.

[@Goldsilver]

Masterpiece

[@shawnmendel3242]

Simply Beautiful. Just lost my Mother a few months back. Now my 90 year old Father is alone. I’m the only one of the three kids you live away from him. This has me wanting to gain more time with him. Your father is sure to be a blessing to you and your family. Best and thank you. Shawn

[@THINKFILMz]

God Bless Him . & wish your family more and more up coming loving years.

[@TimoBirnschein]

This was heart braking... such a beautiful portrait....

[@gregorydelagrangechancel92]

This film is the most beautiful present a son may give his father. Thank you for sharing it with us.

[@filmjkk]

Watching this makes me think that I wish I will be able to make my dad proud one day.

[@Leadley]

This was really lovely.

[@cnrmoose]

Your dad speaks so calmly. He seems like most great men, just quietly goes through life doing what needs to be done and trying to keep everyone else happy. Sorry for your loss.

[@betacam22]

Very touching movie. Congrats Philip.

[@maxmustermann194]

Very emotional stories, thank you Mr.Bloom and Mr. Bloom Jr. of course!!

[@philg6757]

Honesty shines through,no wonder your mum and dad are still together. Great job Phil.

[@tilago]

Great Philip. Higher quality and understanding of film than anything else on KZbin

[@BiDaoOMG]

You've conveyed a great respect and admiration for your dad through this film. A pleasure to watch. I hope my son and I have a similar relationship when he grows up.

[@hubert1224]

Incredible material, and great dad! Not everyone can talk about their bad and good sides with such honesty.

[@SymonSaysTV]

Great…! Your father is a great teller and absolutely in love with his wife Francine, one just have to see the smile coming on his face when he talks about her. Good Job Philip. Always very inspiring.

[@linusfotograf]

Touching stuff. You strike a good balance of things in your work.

[@alexisbellydance]

Who would give this amazing video a negative. Philip this is beautiful! Bravo to you and your wonderful family!

[@frax777]

Beautiful, Phillip. Thanks for sharing.

[@enyaw1948]

Thank God your father made.that phone call. A beautiful made interview. Thank You Philip. Wayne Harrison Vermont, U.S.A.

[@godsaber21]

Beautiful and very touching little film you made Mr. Bloom. Absolutely heart warming to see your father light up when it comes to his wife. Loved every bit of this. Take care

[@danielappiah-adjei5812]

This is one the most beautiful films i have seen this year. Reminds me of the tales my great grandmother told me. i will always be more than willing you help you out film. if you ever find yourself in Ghana. Inspired.

[@mikesmicroshop4385]

I have lost all of my parents, and I feel the loss every day. It is great that you have the opportunity to do this for your family. Loved the film!!!!!

[@sipkelly]

Beautifully done Phillip... I imagine you gave him a huge hug straight after!

[@versalvideo]

Beautiful story ! I love this mood for this film ! Thanks for sharing

[@DavidDoesFilms]

Rest in peace to your father. You’ve inspired me to do the same for my family while time permits.

[@x100ed]

Philip, Thank you so much. This is such a beautiful, personal, wonderful movie. Your family seem so full of love for each other, your dad is such a gentleman, and he was right about your mum, a stunning lady. Love and best wishes to your dad for what he went through and came out on top of! why a beautiful man.

[@redelbluredelmai2750]

Simply beautiful. Sometimes i wonder how many interesting stories we could hear from the people who surround us everyday. Especially from the unnoticed ones. This video is a clear example of how, in its highs and lows, life is amazing. You did a great job Philip and your dad is incredible. PS: I can't understand why anyone would dislike this video. Some people really lack intelligence and sensitivity.

[@djamesvideography]

Beautiful portrait of your father. Thanks for sharing.

[@bramvandervelden6891]

the way your dad tells the story is incredible. It's in a way that is so relax and with so many emotions. inspirational just as your work philip. you're all so inspirational

[@GurneetSingh63]

So beautiful, full of Love and Life! Thank you Philip for sharing :)

[@supasaiyajingokou]

What a lovely thing to see. I'm glad that we got a chance to meet your dad. Even through the enduring hardships of life, he's retained his sense of compassion. A brilliant and touching documentary.

[@MarcBirks]

Beautiful production philip as always and what a touching story, your father seems a lovely bloke, look after and treasure every minute with him.

[@rdzn710]

Thank your dad, and thank you Mr. Bloom for sharing this story.

[@DarrylCollins]

Beautiful film, thanks for sharing. Your dad is a top bloke. Love his honesty and self-deprecating humour.

[@philipbloom]

thank you, yeah he was. Miss him terribly. :(

[@chrischrist6029]

Philip, What a beautiful video diary of your Dad and Family life over the years, You must be very proud even with the ups and downs, I wish you all the very best for the future, and your mum and dad look great together and hope they find the time to bring back that sparkle that they once had when they were young. Brilliant = Respect

[@TheJWC56RSA]

Excellent and so very honest. You are blessed to still have them both - you are. God bless.

[@phantomcorps3373]

Seems like he was a real kind soul. Thanks for sharing ❤

[@SparkieWaller2009]

Phillip, Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful snapshot of your dad's life. I know there is so much more but you have this, your children have this and so will theirs. I have four pictures of me and my dad but feel lucky to have those. So many of my friends have none of them and their dad. Your wonderful work is greatly appreciated!

[@DriventvCa_media]

Wow just wow! Another beautifully crafted piece Mr. Bloom. As an expat Londoner living in Northern Canada I always look forward your London bits, but this was by far the best of the best. (More Ice Please another fav).. Thanks for showing the way for independents everywhere Cheers

[@philipbloom]

Thank you

[@enaudeni]

Thanks so much for sharing this. Very touching and heart warming.

[@kazimierasmikucionis7580]

It really touched me. Great story. Thank you Philip and your dad for the time and effort making this video. Best luck for you and your family.

[@AKSTUDIOUSA]

Hey Philip, Your films are remedy and stress reliefe. Great work,

[@tariqalexanderwaheed476]

Hello Phillip, you are hands down my MOST FAVOURITE educator on You Tube. Over the time you become a real role model for me. I´m a cameraman/filmmaker from Hannover in Germany. --------the things you share with us and the way YOU Brin it across is so much inspiring and entertaining and full of humanity. You are just not another funny character on KZbin, its just you. And one can feel that. I wish I will have the opportunity to meet you in person one day. Until then please keep doing what you do. It´s just amazing. THANK YOU

[@jasonsacks6352]

You are an inspiration Mr Bloom, and this was so touching, meaningful and awesome. Keep up the incredible work you do, and helping to inspire creatives all over the world like myself.

[@philipbloom]

Thanks jason

[@pjohnsonfilms]

Just beautiful Philip. May he rest in eternal peace ❤️

[@patrickgikandi]

You are such an inspiration. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@okay1904]

Thank you Philip, this is amazing. Well done.

[@taylornoel]

Just today my mother asked me to film my grandfather as he recounted his life. Your film helps me see my film before it even exists. Thanks dude

[@Hansca]

I am currently organizing a similar project with my mother and this was so amazingly inspirational. Philip I love all your work and have the greatest respect for your knowledge of your art form. Thank you for being the genius that you clearly are and being so generous to share that with a rank amateur like me. I am in your debt.

[@gordonware458]

Been watching for a couple of years but have to comment on this one... Well done, you must of had to take several breaks to wipe tears of joy and sadness. Great outline of a life lived well and the value of a family. Thanks. GW

[@BennoSattler]

R.I.P. - all the best to you and your family!

[@AnthonyCupo0012]

Thank you for sharing. Grabbing the camera now and running off to Pop's.

[@byliamkelly]

Mum & Dad What a fantastic piece of reportage Philip. Thank you. I lost my mum 10 years ago this September, and Dad passed 2 years ago this July. I miss them every day. I had a very tempestuous relationship with them both for most of my life, but especially my mum. Depression, attempted suicide, my brother with a disability that cost him his life, the death of my two sisters at birth, an abusive childhood, the suicide of her own mother, and finally cancer, all made her life incredibly difficult, and any relationships with friends and family a constant battle. My father loved her and stayed with her till the very end, even though she pushed him away constantly, was violent with him, and frankly hated him most of the time. She resented me most of my life too. She suffered chronically with her mental health, and both him and I always knew that it was the illness that made her a raging fire of a person to be around. That’s love I guess. Can’t say that there weren’t many times, especially when I was young, that I didn’t hate her for, well everything. Youth makes you resent your parents at the best of times, but with all the baggage I had, it just compounded it. I resented him as well. For not being able to make her better. For not being there, as he worked all the hours available to pay for my brother’s special needs education etc. For not being the Dad I needed. At least that’s what my young mind and heart felt. Many years were spent after I left home, left university, moved to London, Paris, Australia, and back to the drizzly isles, having a fractured relationship with them both. A few years on, with communication, visits, and a semblance of a relationship with them, then out of nowhere, a raging black dog would pour paraffin on the fire, and we wouldn’t speak for months, and often years. I met my wife in 2007, and found peace and love finally. Yet my parents wanted nothing to do with us. We just got on with our lives together, and I had a new family of my own with her, and her family. I wished, as always, for a family I could call my own, that was normal, was stable, but I just had to accept it was never gonna be. In 2014 we got that call. Out of nowhere, this time after 5 years of silence. My dad in tears on the phone telling us that mum was dying and could we come up to… I guess say goodbye. We did. She passed away 4 minutes after we arrived at the hospital. Just before we made it to her room, and my broken dad. We never got to say goodbye. My wife and I picked up my dad, and a new life with him began. We sat for hours talking and crying, remembering and being angry at her, and also being very sad and overwhelmed with emotion, as these three people huddled around this women so quiet and at peace at last. Later that evening, an 8 year relationship with my father began. We spent these next years, until his passing, in the summer of 2022, living with a third member to our little family. We spoke to him everyday at least 2-3 times, often for many hours, without fail. He came to visit us many times. We spent many weekends up with him. He came on holiday camping with us at the age of 83 to Cornwall. And made it through the pandemic, without catching it, and with much help from us, the internet, food deliveries and new friends he made around him. He found a new life when mum passed. A new purpose. Charity work, teaching kids at his local school to read, air cadets training (he was in the RAF for 30 years, and then 20 years in civil aviation, and so had a lot to give back), Pilates classes, the pub with his mates, 5am walks in the countryside, church holidays in Derbyshire, even though I don’t think he really believed in God, and a new second family with my wife’s family and grand kids. He even saved a little old fat ginger cat from homelessness. Mange Tout. MT lived till a month after his death, when he died with us and our pets. A great little friend for my dad over these years of his second life. My dad died very suddenly, but after a few falls, a case of shingles, and a minor stroke, all through the lockdowns. He was 89, and fighting fit, but fragile and little. I miss him so very much. I’m so glad that we had the time we had with him. Those 8 years after mum passed away, gave us something I had always craved, but had never really had. I wish I had had more time, more years, more memories. I wish I had had some more with mum too. Some good ones, with her healthy and happy, but I really can’t remember many of those - maybe when I was very young, but not many. Mum was a peace at last. Dad had a second wind, and lived it to the full. Right till his very last day. We spoke to him the night before, at bed time, just after a lovely dinner, his favourite limoncello pudding, and a couple of episodes of Midsomer Murders. He was happy. Tired and ready for bed. But at peace I like to think. I wish I had made some form of documentary of his life. I wish I had been able to for both of them really. Such full lives. Often very hard. Always filled with difficulty, tragedy, yet always with each other. I have my memories I guess. Watching your dad and thinking about mine. It makes me think that you have to make the most of every moment, every chance for something new, every moment of happiness, and every relationship that means anything to you, even those that aren’t always easy. You don’t get second chances, once they’ve gone, they’ve gone. Questions never asked. Answers never given. Make the most of life. You only get one.

[@speedbird01]

Very touching Philip, a lovely dad, look after him, Best wishes Adrian

[@jorgenbjorn]

I really have to interview my mum like you have done with your father. It seems like I really missed out on something beautiful by not having a proper father in my life. May your father rest in peace and thank you for the beautiful video mr. Bloom Kind regards Jørgen

[@mohamadavakian]

God Bless You And Your Family

[@fabipuello]

Beautiful story. Beautifully done.

[@montymakesmovies]

Absolutely beautiful interview.

[@nathaliebloom4675]

My beautiful, kind and adored daddo ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@AnimalStomper]

What a beautiful man.

[@AutismTwinsUs]

Loved this Philip. Arnie has a very kind manner like you

[@FilippoMasoni]

That is simply amazing. My two grandmothers are still alive and this is the first thing I will do next month when I'll be back in Italy. The fact that you can capture the stories these people lived many years ago and store it for basically forever is quite remarkable. Thank you Phil to remind us that we have to do this while we can.

[@themediaman100]

That was brilliant. You could have a future in filmaking you know. What comes across in your stuff is sensitivity, using just the right music and the right shot. If I could have done something similar about my dad I would have done but sadly he passed many years ago. Many of us stand behind a camera and record what other people do then perhaps show it to the world without further thought. But it takes courage, and some pride, to show your family to the world when you come from that background of showing someone else who you don't know to the world. You did a great job with this but your dad was amazing. He bared his soul to his son, knowing full well that though you he was telling the world, people who he never met or will, the truth, warts and all. He's proud of his son and vice-versa. Well done both.

[@ROBRESETAR]

thanks philip, for this quietly moving film which held my interest for the entire piece.

[@rafaelbrand2267]

Damn Philip! You and your dad made me cry and log in at 3:20am to write this: marvelous biography/interview/video! I'll sure do this also with my father, thanks for sharing, hope you and your family the best. PS: Now it's time for that other video called "My Mother" ;) Be safe, a big hug from Brazil!

[@philipbloom]

***** thank you!

[@canturgan]

Alcoholism is a terrible thing, I have seen people waste their lives because of it. Very good documentary, very honest. Probably the most important film you will ever make. Good luck to you all.

[@adamj2951]

Superb work Philip, he sounds like a great dad!

[@ratadeldesierto760]

Rest in peace, sorry for your lost Philip.

[@MrTBMedia]

This proves again life is not always a fairytale, we just have to make the best of it :) Thank you Philippe, for sharing this 'private' story. And as always shot in a beautiful way. Love your work, Kind regards, Titus.

[@Galder1313]

I saw this video appear in my "What to Watch" and thought, why do I want to see a film on someones Dad. I am so glad that I took the time to watch it, in its entirety. I especially enjoyed the Blog post with the extra "how I did this" information. Thanks for this video and the inspiration it has given. Very nice work!

[@garyking4032]

Philip thank you so much for this. Personally I find it inspirational for two reasons - firstly I've spent hours scrabbling around old video footage to view a few seconds of my dad who passed away about ten years ago, and secondly because my mum has spoken about writing her memoirs one day and now I have a better way to record those precious memories. Film-making can be so rewarding, yet not many subjects can approach the significance of this. Thanks again.

[@Reno_T]

I didn't know anything about your Dad 30 minutes ago...and you managed to touch me right to the heart Philip! So powerful! Thank you for all the passion you put in your productions. You're a source of inspiration. Bonjour à toute la famille ;-)

[@robinprobyn1971]

Great video , TBH watched the trailer and thought Im probably not going to watch the whole thing , but absolutely drawn into it . Lovely guy .

[@rodprynnegeneral5259]

Thanks, I enjoyed that, it really kept my attention and your father speaks very well to camera in a calm and thoughtful manner. I felt I was getting a story and it was an interesting and entertaining story.

[@adebowaleadetayo9023]

wow, this is beautiful. Always been a fan of your work. However this is the pick of the lot. It has such heart

[@pablofaccinetto]

Wow, what a portrait, very nice film you made Philip

[@maciek741]

re-watching this after seeing your post on facebook that Arnie is in hospital. Please send him my best wishes and I hope you and the family are holding up well. M

[@JonnieDean]

Fantastic video, I've been working on a similar personal video about my Mum, Really engaging and heartfelt, Thanks for sharing.

[@stuffwithben]

What a great video. You captured your dad from many angles (literally and figuratively).

[@bitbloop]

absolutely amazing. what a guy!

[@VIProductions100]

I found this doc to be so touching and emotional that talking about the production would seem futile and ridiculous. Your parents are beautiful and in a short 22 minutes you made me feel for your father. Mazzel tov!

[@Okechukwuobasijoseph]

Philip, all I can say is FANTASTIC, good video as usual, but this one is quite inspirational. I just like everything about this video. Please, please Philip, I need the behind the scene of this work. God bless you and your dear family, an extra thanks to your dad for granting this interview.

[@philipbloom]

Thank you. Behind the scene is in lengthy blog post linked in the info here

[@Okechukwuobasijoseph]

Philip Bloom Thank you very much.

[@instapome7987]

This video struck a chord with me. Love you work, love this video and certainly makes you realize how important family is!! I think the next time I head home to the UK to visit my father I will have to attempt something similar!! Thanks Philip a great way to keep people positive!!

[@ShaneFredrickKinsman]

Great Film Philip! Your fathers honesty took it to another level and really made it a worth while watch. Had it been the perfect family, blah, blah , blah I wouldn't have watched it through. Don't get me wrong, I don't enjoy watching people go through tough times, however, I feel there's no such thing as a fairy tale life, and those that portrait so are full of shit. Goes back to the element of being genuinely real, and honest. I can definitely see a strong resemblance between you and your father, especially when he was younger. This is a great way to leave his legacy to live on. Bravo!!

[@thebutter7692]

All I was thinking about was my father... I couldn't continue watching... This is really touching and I liked it so much... I hope you can make a video about making this and how did you confessed him to speak to the camera

[@foliojoutsen]

My dad died when I was 12 years old. So I never knew him that well. These are precious things. I have made this kind of thing from my mom when she turned 50 years. Now I think it's time to do one from my drandparents. Nice and touching video Philip. Good work!

[@MattNormanFilms]

I usually skip over things but due to the fact it was Philip Blooms work I thought I'd watch (yes I literally watch anything Phil does!) I have to say mate that your dad is an awesome bloke. What a great story!!! Your mum is absolutely stunning and yes I would definitely look twice if I saw her walking down the street. This was a very beautiful piece of work Philip which will one day be an awesome memory of your dad that not many people get the chance to make. Fascinating family. Be proud! Matt Norman.

[@philipbloom]

Thank you very much!

[@gohumberto]

One day Philip I'll bump into you in Brighton, and shake your hand for this film. You've made many superb films but none of them, in 100 years time, will be as important to your family as this one. I need to commit my own parents, and kids....and me, to film ASAP. It's priceless stuff.

[@omcguigan]

Beautifully done Phil. As always

[@larsnaenfeldt4121]

Such a fantastic video!. What a feeling, my tears were coming. Thank you very much for this good inspiration. I will try to do something similar within my family.

[@jaffarbh]

What an honest and lovely father :)

[@possumheadcarpentry]

I think you have touched a nerve with alot of people, me included, this is one of the best videos ive seen and to the person ( if thats the right word ) who did the dislike to this, maybe look at your dad, is there the same love.. Didnt think so. Thanks for sharing Mr Blooms