A Way of Life (15)

Director: Amma Asante
Starring: Stephanie James, Nathan Jones, Gary Sheppard
UK, 2004, 1 hour 31 minutes

At 18, living in a claustrophobic South Wales community, Leigh-Anne is battling to bring up her young baby on her own. Battling with a benefits system she doesn’t understand, battling with social services and her interfering grandmother who are concerned about the baby, and battling with a ‘Paki’ neighbour who is a convenient target for her frustration. Her only support is a tight-knit group of friends who are all blustering insecurity and raging hormones. Aided by a young cast who deliver frighteningly convincing performances, this terrifically assured debut explores the roots and reasons for racism but delivers no easy answers or excuses for such attitudes. A discomforting but riveting portrait of contemporary Britain.

“A devastatingly powerful picture . . . an exceptional debut.” The Times

We hope that Amma Asante, winner of the UK Film Talent Award, will be present to introduce the film.

See this if you liked Ae Fond Kiss, Naked, Scum, Sweet Sixteen, Vera Drake

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