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SMALL AXE: ALEX WHEATLE

Steve McQueen | 2020 | 66 MINS
UK
We regret we are unable to go ahead with the five episodes of 'Small Axe' due to complicated issues of rights of the use of the large amount of commercial recordings contained in all five films. The decision has been made to also withdraw the talk on Aug 22.

In Detail

The fourth and penultimate film in the Small Axe series tells the true story of Alex Wheatle, now a celebrated author, who turned his life around after being jailed over the Brixton riots in 1981. Having spent his childhood in a mostly white institutional care home with no love or family, he finally finds not only a sense of community for the first time in Brixton, but his identity and opportunity to grow his passion for music and DJing.

When he is thrown in prison during the Brixton Uprising of 1981, he confronts his past and sees a path to healing. Sheyi Cole stars opposite Jonathan Jules.

Small Axe

We are proud to be able to screen Steve McQueen’s BBC ‘s TV event of the year, a collection of five films for television based on the real-life experiences of London’s West Indian community. For these rare screenings to be shown on the Big Screen we are grateful for permission from the BBC and BFI South Bank. (LOGO)

Set between 1968 and 1982, these five standalone stories shown here in chronological order celebrate courage and community. From a group of activists taking on a seemingly hopeless battle against police persecution, to a teenager experiencing a blues party full of dance, danger and romance, they’re a powerful reminder of how brave individuals can spark change. ‘Small Axe’ delivers a message our divided world needs to hear: even the most marginalised voices can challenge the most powerful.

Writers: Steve McQueen, Alastair Siddons, Courttia Newland
Director: Steve McQueen
Producers: Mike Elliot, Anita Overland

Special Offer - All 5 Films & Talk £25