Handsworth Songs
Synopsis
The Black Audio Film Collective’s acclaimed essay film, 'Handsworth Songs', examines the 1985 race riots in Handsworth and London. Interweaving archival photographs, newsreel clips, and home movie footage, the film is both an exploration of documentary aesthetics and a broad meditation social and cultural oppression through Britain’s intertwined narratives of racism and economic decline.
Top Cast
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Release History & Theatrical Window
Melbourne International Film Festival
Festival / Special Debut
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- John Akomfrah
- Original Score
- Trevor Mathison
- Original Title
- Handsworth Songs
- Country of Origin
- United Kingdom
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1h 1m
- Production Studios
- Black Audio Film Collective
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
John Akomfrah
Trevor Mathison
John Akomfrah, Roy Cornwall
Anna Liebschner, Hugh Williams
Lina Gopaul
Department Leadership Roster
John Akomfrah
Director
Lina Gopaul
Producer
Anna Liebschner
Editor
Hugh Williams
Editor
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Handsworth Songs.
Featured In Curated Collections
Editorial lists, community rankings, and cinematic collections featuring Handsworth Songs.
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Harvard University's Suggested Film Viewing List Non-Fiction Films - (120): (2012)
BFI's Top 100 Documentary Films
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Frequently Asked Questions About Handsworth Songs
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Handsworth Songs about?
The Black Audio Film Collective’s acclaimed essay film, 'Handsworth Songs', examines the 1985 race riots in Handsworth and London. Interweaving archival photographs, newsreel clips, and home movie footage, the film is both an exploration of documentary aesthetics and a broad meditation social and cultural oppression through Britain’s intertwined narratives of racism and economic decline.
Who directed Handsworth Songs?
Handsworth Songs was directed by John Akomfrah.
Who stars in Handsworth Songs?
The principal cast of Handsworth Songs includes Pervaiz Khan, Meera Syal, Yvonne Weekes.
When was Handsworth Songs released and how long is it?
Handsworth Songs was released in 1986 with a total runtime of 1h 1m.
Who composed the musical score for Handsworth Songs?
The original motion picture soundtrack for Handsworth Songs was composed by Trevor Mathison.