A FAMOUS Beddgelert legend is to be dramatised in a new film.

One of Wales’ most repeated fables about man’s best friend will be released in a captivating film which takes viewers back to the medieval era which inspired the stirring Gelert story.

The 15-minute short, Beddgelert (translation: Gelert’s Grave), is a fresh but realistic interpretation of the famous story about Prince Llywelyn the Great’s faithful dog who sacrifices its life to save its master’s son and heir.

Beddgelert, written and directed by the internationally acclaimed Welsh film director Medeni Griffiths, will be premiered on S4C on Wednesday, 1 November, 7.35pm, as part of the S4C Chwedlau – Legends season.

Shot on location in the Dolwyddelan area, the film’s tragic main characters are Prince Llywelyn the Great (portrayed by Andrew Howard) and his late wife Siwan (Catherine Ayers).

Medeni Griffiths, the Los Angeles based Welsh writer/director, known for her imaginative and engaging directing style in films such as Summit, brings in new themes to add depth and colour to the well-known tale to be forever remembered at the famous burial stone in the picturesque Snowdonia village.

Medeni said: “Since I was a child, I’ve always loved the story of Beddgelert and even though many people see it as a tragic tale, I wanted to make something that had a glimmer of hope at the end for this character and his son; they have a future together.

“It’s a tear jerker, but I hope people also find it magical and inspiring.”

Produced by Benjamin Jenkins, the film also stars Rupert Bradfield as Llywelyn’s son Dafydd, and Fern as Gelert.

With award-winning composer Ceiri Torjussen writing the score and Alys Bevan behind the costume direction, this Bad Wolf production is one of a number of short films commissioned by Ffilm Cymru Wales and the BFI NET.WORK’s Beacons in a scheme for encouraging emerging filmmakers.