SUMMER SCHEDULE! Doors open 8.30PM. Jeffrey's intro + film start 30 minutes later than usual, at 9PM

SCUM   1979 Directed by Alan Clarke 98 minutes In English

Let's be clear, this is one of the most iconic films in British film history. It was originally made as a television film for the BBC, but even though it was even scheduled and advertised, it was banned at the last moment, and was never allowed to be seen for the next fourteen years. The director, and the actors involved, were so frustrated by this censorship, that after two years they decided to make another version for the cinemas. Ha, finally a re-make that was justified! The 35 mm theatrical version was even more riveting, hard-hitting and better acted. When it hit the British movie screens, it became a hit... influencing a new generation. Just to make it clear, it will be the cinema version that I'll be showing.

Alan Clarke is a director who I often screen, because he was a maverick and his movies always retain both an intense creative and a social vision. His movies went into areas that no one else would go, and even though they could be uncomfortable, he felt the themes he explored need to be discussed and not simply ignored. This production stars a young Ray Winstone as Carlin, a boy who is sent to a juvenile detention center (borstal) where he has to fight for survival. We see heartless guards and a mix of imbecilic and fanatical bureaucrats. Especially the psychiatrists, doctors and social workers are hideous in their pretending not to see what is really happening. It is an environment, like most prisons, where violence is actually encouraged in order to keep the kids in place and make their lives hell. But it is not only a story of imprisonment, but is also a movie about rebellion, both on a small scale and on a grand one. The cast is great, with Ray Winstone in his first leading role, and also featuring Phil Daniels (Quadrophenia). An amazing flick, powerful as hell, and a rare screening.

This will be a high-definition projection.