Babylon is a 1980 movie directed by Franco Rossi.
WHAT HAPPENS?
Babylon tells the story of West London black youth in the early 80’s. Their identities are forged through reggae sound system competitions and enduring racial tension.
ONE LINE REVIEW
The culture of Reggae sound system is the soundtrack for a clash of race, culture and lost youth.
THE ACTORS
The cast of Babylon is comprised of mainly unknown actors, which gives the movie an authentic feel. Given that the characters are young and often aimless, the actor’s inexperience is an asset. The standout performances are delivered by Brinsley Forde’s Blue, whose life unravels over the course of the movie. He is subject to cruel racism, loses his job, leaves his house and is pursued by police.
Forde captures the angst and confusion of lost youth – the repressed anger and raw sorrow explodes in a few scenes as he’s confronted by his mother’s live-in boyfriend. He clings to his righteousness but knows financially he’s inferior. Similarly, he feels betrayed by his girlfriend. He wants to channel the kind of domestic domination he’s seen elsewhere but cannot.
Trevor Laird’s Beefy may be the movie’s most intriguing character. He serves as a comic foil for the Il Lion crew, parading the streets with his neighbor’s mammoth dog. He’s considered a joke – but unleashes terrifying, but justified rage at the crew’s overtly racist neighbors. The movie’s most striking scene sees Beefy attempt to physically confront the racists. Unhinged, he screams and has to be restrained by Blue and Ronnie, the only white man in the crew.
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