I was fortunate enough to catch and record this when it was shown on TV and got to watch it several times in the company of approx 120 Year 11 pupils in post mock exam breathing space (at a time when Coursework was not condemned as cheating, and when pupils were encouraged to have opinions and express them!) This tough and discerning audience was impressed, too, by the quality of acting and writing. Coltrane's dismissive cruelty was tempered with real humanity for the addicted partner of Smudger and then for Henry's character. Henry was tough and convincing as the dealing Smudger and the opening rooftop chase of a rival was memorable TV. The messages were uncompromisingly clear but there was no preaching. Along with Coast to Coast, Alive and Kicking showed Lennie Henry's versatility, while Coltrane added a vicious humour that I hadn't noticed in his stand-up or Tutti Frutti or Danny Champion of the World. I am still chasing copies of Alive and Kicking and Coast to Coast
Review of Alive and Kicking
