A Merthyr valleys town at dusk — terraced streets on the hillside, one home glowing warm, mist over the hills behind

Support & Invest

Back the Rag

A community-owned film — share Merthyr and the valleys with the world.

A community-owned film

We want The Rag to be a community-owned film — a chance for the people of Merthyr and the valleys to share their story with the world. It's a David-and-Goliath comedy-drama, drawn from (mostly) true events, about three misfits who start a newspaper and refuse to be talked down to.

The Rag has a production budget of £1 million, and the entire film will be shot in Merthyr Tydfil. Backing it isn't just a donation — investors take a real share in the film, which carries a Welsh heart and international ambition: to take the valleys to the world, owned by the community it celebrates.

Community backers will form part of a community ownership fund, giving the town a genuine stake in its own story. The whole film is being made in Merthyr — and we'd love for much of it to end up owned by Merthyr, too.

And if you think you can help bring The Rag to life — in any way at all — we'd be glad to hear from you; drop us a note through the form below, or get in touch directly.

A share in the film — and it can be tax-efficient

Investors receive a share in the film. Film investment can also be tax-efficient — there are schemes we'd be glad to talk you through. Our production company, Firedrake Entertainment, is on hand to advise on the options and help you find the right tier.

See the tax benefits →

Ways to back the film

Community Backer

£250

The mass-participation tier.

  • Founding Backer status
  • Name in the end credits
  • Investor updates
  • Limited-edition artwork

Producer Supporter

£1,000

  • Everything in Community Backer
  • Community screening access
  • Production updates
  • Special producer screenings
  • Invitation to behind-the-scenes events

Associate Producer

£5,000+

Where local business people start appearing.

  • Associate Producer credit (subject to production agreements)
  • Branding opportunities
  • Private events with cast & crew
  • Enhanced recognition
  • Access to the Merthyr Premiere

Executive Circle

£25,000+

  • Executive Producer consideration
  • Private dinners & events
  • Deeper involvement

Executive Producer

£100,000

A major financing partner, not just a supporter.

  • Executive Producer credit
  • Major recognition
  • Strategic involvement (within reason)

Your capital is at risk. The tiers above are indicative and nothing here is financial advice — please speak to Firedrake Entertainment and your own adviser before investing.

Make a pledge →

Non-binding · no payment now

Questions, answered

Is my pledge binding?

No. The letter of intent is a non-binding expression of interest. You are not committing to pay anything by pledging.

When do I pay?

Not now. Any transfer is arranged later by the appointed accountant, through proper banking channels, and only once the formal documents are in place.

Can I change my amount?

Yes. Because the pledge is non-binding, just get in touch and we'll update it before any formal documents are drawn up.

Who controls the money?

An appointed chartered accountant and an independent local custodian. Funds are held and released only for the production of the film.

What do I get for backing the film?

Each tier carries its own recognition and benefits — from founding-backer status and credits through to producer recognition. See the tiers above.

Prefer to just ask a question?

Not ready to pledge? Leave your details and a note, and we'll be in touch — no commitment.