*1970s Britain*
We discussed Tristan’s 1970s Britain choices
READ: Instructions for a Heatwave (2013) by Maggie O’Farrell
There was much love for this book. Most gushed about its many perceived merits. Even the naysayers enjoyed it but felt it was a tad predictable and lacking any jeopardy.
Nick 9 / Tristan 9 / Nigel 6 / Keith 8 / Roland 6 / Robin 7 / Hamish 9
Most had barely listened to this seminal album. The Dennis Bovell production is what elevates it. The earlier Peel Sessions by The Slits show how transformational Dennis Bovell was. And of course The Slits blazed a trail for women everywhere. The stunning cover of I Heard It Through the Grapevine takes the original song in a totally different direction.
WATCH: Abigail’s Party (1977) directed by Mike Leigh (DVD)
Beverley is the epitome of the nightmare suburban housewife: crass, tactless, lacking self awareness and seething with a thwarted energy.
A razor sharp deconstruction of subtle class dynamics too.
Interestingly Dennis Potter concluded that, for all its merits, it was sneering and vindictive. Which perhaps fits with Mike Leigh’s agenda? Either way it’s a masterpiece.
ENDORSE IT
Goodwood Festival of Speed
West Cork podcast + Netflix series
Stewart Lee: Unreliable narrator (BBC Sounds)
Bob Dylan: Verbatim (BBC Sounds)
NEXT TIME
Next time out we are discussing Hamish’s choices
Theme to be revealed (apparently it’s quite obvious and stems from the film)
READ: The Zero (2006) by Jess Walter
LISTEN: Nocturnes (2020) by Revolutionary Army of the Infant Jesus
WATCH: That Obscure Object of Desire (1977) directed by Luis Buñuel
Date of discussion: Thursday 9th September 2021
