Merging documentary and fiction, Jack Hazan and David Mingay’s Rude Boy follows roughneck Ray Gange as he drops his Soho sex-shop job to roadie for The Clash—the most fiery, revolutionary rock ’n’ roll band of the era, seen in this film at the dizzying peak of their powers. Ray, a difficult, sometimes reactionary subject and a foil to the band’s idealism, plays observer to The Clash’s legendary 1978 Rock Against Racism concert in London’s Victoria Park and their studio recording of Give ’Em Enough Rope. Set against a background of riots, racist and anti-racist demos, and police hostility towards Black British youth, this unforgettable, absorbing film shows a UK on the brink of Thatcherism, and a moment when subcultural shock troops met those of a rising right wing in the streets. Uncut and restored in glorious 4K, it's an immersive time capsule, a glorious music film—and the most timely and anticipated re-release of the year.
Tickets: $15 (Members from $10)
Want to learn more about the early, rough and tumble days of some of the most iconic artists and game changers of the 20th century? Look no further than Watch List: Artist Proof, an exploration of the Art Life-young artists finding their creative voices while struggling to make it.
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