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Film Review

Review and critique at least one short film production

London’s gang rates have risen considerably in the past few years, with 80 people being stabbed to death in the capital this year alone, making it more important than ever to help kids avoid gang violence. The Documentary Before the Storm, directed by Jake Churchill and Prokopi Constantinou and produced by Indrewitself, subverts this violent culture, through a shared love of riding and bikes in the UK.  Led by Mac, an experienced rider, the community inspires young people to focus on a sport that encourages confidence and a positive outlet while on the streets. They also promote a harmonious setting, as we are shown a clip of a conversation with police officers, with Mac stating how by working with the police they can educate others to view it not as a gang but more as a youth group.
The group’s main ethos ‘Guns down, knives down, bikes up’ promotes a safe environment for young people to grow up with, whilst still being productive and learning new tricks in their spare time. Many of the kids who attend are able to use it as a getaway from everyday life, with BikeLife being a pivotal part of their existence. One boy commented “It’s like our church” which highlights the importance of the group to many of those who go, indicating its sacred characteristics. Cycle Pit-stop bike shop is also a key part of the community, allowing riders to have their bikes customised and upgraded. The top room of the shop is being converted into an editing studio, allowing the young people to edit videos and photos with photographers, promoting a creative aspect of the sport. Mac also wants the kids to use it as a safe space, where they can come and do their homework or hang out in small groups.
Multiple cinematic montages depict the feel-good atmosphere of the group, showing audiences the time in which they put into learning new tricks as well as the progression from amateur to pro. Tracking shots of the riders on the road demonstrate the speed at which these tricks are being performed, despite some of the boys being no older than 13.  Within every scene the bikes can be viewed, which emphasises the importance of riding and how it surrounds everything they do.  Mass gatherings are also shown, which shows the pure mass of people who are involved in this bike scheme, which is empowering to say the least.

Feel-good music is mixed in throughout, whilst still keeping the sounds of the city and the voices prevalent.  When individuals are speaking, the music is stopped so that the main focus is on their stories and the message.  Shot in various locations across London, the scale of the group can really be seen.  From the bike shop to the streets, the movement is powerful and shows no signs in stopping.

Before the Storm is shot in a very raw and realistic mode, with the documentary being from a character-based perspective, rather than presenter led. This is also reflected in the simple editing style, with straight cuts used in order to not distract the audience from the main message.  A small number of different members are interviewed, from young new riders to the more experienced of the group, in order to get a wider insight of the situation, and it is clear that the kids aspire to be like Mac and the older leaders. Mac comments about feeling a personal responsibility to guide the young people, taking on the role of an older brother to keep them from causing trouble on the streets. Many of the young people are from underprivileged backgrounds, but despite this they continue to strive for the best and avoid the violent lifestyles that they could so easily have followed.

Their is no specific target audience, however the way in which it is shot attracts the younger generations, ranging from 12-25.  The message behind it could also entice a wider audience, as part of the reason of the documentary was to promote the awareness that they aren’t causing any trouble, which is a view that many older commuters may have when they see a ‘gang’ of riders on the street.

The thought provoking story really makes you think about the revolutionary idea of Bike Storms, and leaves you to question where these young people would be without this group.  This effectiveness at bringing out the viewers emotion in itself highlights a place of change, as its aspirational message inspires others to focus on a positive hobby instead of just hanging around on the streets.

I would recommend this documentary to anyone from any background, as it not only provides an insight into how other cultures and areas work, but can also provide a relatable message to those who may be in similar situations as those featured in the film.

Comments

  1. Bex Rose

    Well done Tara this is a well written and perceptive review that shows engagement with film you have chosen.
    You have considered how the filmmakers use ket technical elements, such as use of camera and sound, to convey the message and meaning behind the film. This section is now complete.

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