Review of Babylon (1998) by Hans L — 18 Mar 2009

For a film with such a confrontational title this is rather subtle. Like the racist thugs that pursue protagonist Blue who are ultimately revealed to be plain clothed police officers. In post Stephen Lawrence Britain (when political and media life is still largely controlled by Oxbridge graduates) this film is a timely reminder of the reality of institutional and national racism.

It's the story of Blue and his crew as they prepare to enter a reggae sound system showdown against their local rivals juxtaposed by the escalating personal crisis Blue finds himself in. It makes its points in a concise and sharply focused way and remains an authentic assessment of south London life in 1980 and the distrust that racism breeds.

But it is littered with much humour and the empowerment found in collective action is celebrated, even if it is simply attending a party where the police want to kick your head in.