I like films, I particularly like British Films, I especially like British Films about British Culture. I Like and have for many years actively enjoyed Northern Soul.
For the last decade or so I have had to rely on the likes of Shane Meadows to successfully weave story lines out of developed British working class characters against a backdrop of fashion, music, humour and drama. Before that; Quadraphenia had a visceral physical affect on my motivation for style, fashion, music & tribalism. The very next day it changed my behaviour, it was a youth culture catalyst that I have been grateful for ever since, it has subsequently provided me with happy reminisces. I am not sure that could ever happen again for todays Teens, too much to compete with, not to mention homogeneous western culture...hard to break away when 300Million Superdry'ers are all wearing the same labels!
Anyway, Mr Kermode gives 'Northern Soul' the perfect review by comparing it to "Good Vibrations". I love that film, fascinating story, gritty setting, incredibly strong, charismatic and superbly acted central characters. Great film.
Now I'm keen, I'm very keen, I heard enough, I've read enough, even the trailer looks promising. I'm feeling nostalgic and charitable all in one. I may even clap at the appropriate Duke Browner breaks irrespective of potential disapproving glances of my Superdry neighbours...I'll be in the moment!
Well, I didn't clap to Duke Browner, or the Exsavyons. I didn't laugh inwards, or smile outwards. The main characters were recognisably mundane or unrecognisably over the top and the plot unfolded predictably. I will say though it is a very well produced film and it definitely had its 'ring-a-bell' moments. The Casino scenes were particularly authentic, but not enough of them for me.
Should you buy a ticket (or DVD) or should you buy a Superdry jacket? Well, where 'Good Vibrations' would keep you warm for many years to come, do go and see Northern Soul but maybe take a jumper!
For the last decade or so I have had to rely on the likes of Shane Meadows to successfully weave story lines out of developed British working class characters against a backdrop of fashion, music, humour and drama. Before that; Quadraphenia had a visceral physical affect on my motivation for style, fashion, music & tribalism. The very next day it changed my behaviour, it was a youth culture catalyst that I have been grateful for ever since, it has subsequently provided me with happy reminisces. I am not sure that could ever happen again for todays Teens, too much to compete with, not to mention homogeneous western culture...hard to break away when 300Million Superdry'ers are all wearing the same labels!
Anyway, Mr Kermode gives 'Northern Soul' the perfect review by comparing it to "Good Vibrations". I love that film, fascinating story, gritty setting, incredibly strong, charismatic and superbly acted central characters. Great film.
Now I'm keen, I'm very keen, I heard enough, I've read enough, even the trailer looks promising. I'm feeling nostalgic and charitable all in one. I may even clap at the appropriate Duke Browner breaks irrespective of potential disapproving glances of my Superdry neighbours...I'll be in the moment!
Well, I didn't clap to Duke Browner, or the Exsavyons. I didn't laugh inwards, or smile outwards. The main characters were recognisably mundane or unrecognisably over the top and the plot unfolded predictably. I will say though it is a very well produced film and it definitely had its 'ring-a-bell' moments. The Casino scenes were particularly authentic, but not enough of them for me.
Should you buy a ticket (or DVD) or should you buy a Superdry jacket? Well, where 'Good Vibrations' would keep you warm for many years to come, do go and see Northern Soul but maybe take a jumper!