London (1994)

Director:

Patrick Keiller

Writer:

Patrick Keiller (writer)

Release Date:

3 June 1994 (UK)

Genre:

Documentary

Plot Keywords:

Narration | Bombing | London England | Independent Film

Cast

Paul Scofield

...

Narrator (voice)

Runtime:

85 min

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Sound Mix:

Dolby

Certification:

UK:U

Filming Locations:

Brent Cross Shopping Centre, Hendon, London, England, UK

Company:

BFI Production

Trivia:

Shot over a period of 11 months in 1992.

Quotes:

Narrator: He asked me if I find it strange that the largest street festival in Europe should take place in London, the most unsociable and reactionary of cities. I said that I didn't find it strange at all, for only in the most unsociable of cities would there be a space for it. And in any case for many people London was not at all unsociable.

Movie Connections:

References "Neighbours" (1985)

downbeat, socialist view of London

Filmed during the election year of 1992, this poignant film presents a very personal, politicised portrait of London as John Major replaces Margaret Thatcher and all seemingly tilts further down into depressing times. If the Conservative government are paralysed with fear and doubt, the IRA certainly are not and add to London's woes on a more frequent basis than I remember. Watching this downbeat, socialist view of London some 15 years after it was shot makes one so aware of just how much has changed for the better. The streets are brighter, people spend more time on them, transport has improved, tourism has roared and confidence and success have replaced the tired old dormitory like city. Ironically, given the tone of this film, it is a little bit of the Labour party, quite a lot of Ken Livingstone, as London Mayor but a whole lot of capitalism at work that has rejuvenated this great city.