Absolute Beginners
Director: Julien Temple
Actors: Patsy Kensit, Eddie O'Connell, David Bowie
PlotIn the late 1950s, London is teeming with youthful energy and cultural shifts. Colin, an aspiring photographer, falls in love with the captivating and ambitious Crepe Suzette, a fashion designer. Their romance blossoms amidst a backdrop of vibrant jazz clubs, fashion shows, and an emerging youth culture. However, Suzette's drive to elevate her status leads her to a relationship with a wealthy and influential older man, which complicates their love and strains Colin's dreams. As Colin becomes more involved in the pulsating world of Soho, he captures the raw essence of a city on the brink of transformation through his lens.
The story takes a darker turn as racial tensions and social upheaval begin to surface in the cosmopolitan city. Colin grapples with his ideals and ambitions, while also facing the moral and societal challenges of his time. The narrative weaves through a landscape of political activism, racial strife, and the fierce need for personal expression. Amidst these tumultuous changes, Colin must navigate his feelings for Suzette and his own identity, all while the world around him inches closer to an explosive climax that will redefine their lives forever.
Writers: Colin MacInnes, Michael Hamlyn, Richard Burridge
Release Date: 18 Apr 1986
Runtime: 108 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Physical Media Reviews
Absolute Beginners boasts vibrant visuals and an inconsistent 5.1 sound mix but leaves much to be desired in supplemental content.