Small Axe - Steve McQueen [DVD]

Steve McQueen directs and co-writes a collection of dramas exploring black people's history in London throughout the 1960s and '80s as individuals seek to assert themselves and communities struggle against systemic racism. In 'Mangrove', based on real events, Frank Crichlow (Shaun Parkes)'s Caribbean restaurant in Notting Hill becomes a vibrant place for the immigrant community to meet, however, with the Metropolitan Police constantly raiding the premises a large number of the local population protest against this discrimination by marching to the local police station. Charged with inciting riots, nine people stand trial where their case becomes a landmark in British history, acknowledging the existence of racism within the police force. In 'Lovers Rock' the course of a single night is documented as Martha (Amarah-Jae St. Aubyn) attends a house party with best friend Patty (Shaniqua Okwok) and falls for Franklyn (Micheal Ward). In 'Red, White and Blue' John Boyega stars as Leroy Logan who gave up his career in laboratory science in order to join the police force as a result of witnessing his father (Steve Toussaint) being assaulted by racist officers. However, tensions arise when young Leroy shares his career change with his friends and family, and despite his capability in the role Leroy still finds himself subjected to prejudice by his colleagues. In 'Alex Wheatle' Sheyi Cole stars as author Alex Wheatle in his formative years as he finds a sense of community and belonging in Brixton having been brought up in institutional care. Finally, in 'Education' young boy Kingsley (Kenyah Sandy) finds himself removed from class despite his aptitude for learning. With his parents too busy working separate jobs to pick up on the educational neglect of their son, three women attempt to address the school's segregation policy on Kingsley's behalf.