#1177d: McQUEEN, Steve: Alex Wheatle (2020)

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McQUEEN, Steve (United Kingdom)
Alex Wheatle [2020]
Spine #1177d
Blu-ray


An intimate account of a decisive moment in British history unfolds via the true story of one man’s awakening Black consciousness. Raised in cold, oppressive children’s homes that have left him estranged from his West Indian roots, the eponymous orphan Alex Wheatle (Sheyi Cole) gradually finds his voice as an artist, activist, and writer on the streets of Brixton—a transformation that intersects with the 1981 uprising in which the neighborhood’s mainly Black youth erupt in protest against police violence. Interwoven with the vibrant reggae that inspired its subject’s journey, Alex Wheatle crackles with the heady political and cultural energy of a singular time and place.

68 Minutes
Black and White/Color
5.1 Surround
2:00:1
Criterion Release 2023

Director/Writers

Screenplay by Alastair Siddons and Steve McQueen.
McQueen was 51 when he directed Alex Wheatle.

The Film

a

Film Rating (0-60):

60

The Extras

The Booklet

Thirty-two page booklet featuring an essay by film programmer and critic Ashley Clark.

Commentary

None.

Conversation

Between McQueen and writer and professor Paul Gilroy.

Behind-the-scenes featurettes

Including interviews with McQueen, executive producer Tracey Scoffield, writing consultant Alex Wheatle, and members of the Small Axe cast.

Uprising (2021)

A three-part documentary codirected by McQueen and James Rogan about the tragic 1981 New Cross house fire.

Audio conversation

Among McQueen, music producer Dennis Bovell, and Beastie Boys member Mike D.

Trailers

Extras Rating (0-40):

39

60 + 39 =

By Spine #

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