Its strange to think about where we are today and where we were on the release of the state of the nation, British cinema, YOUNG SOUL REBELS. Truly a landmark for Black, Queer and counter culture cinema of this nation. A convincing picture of late 70s London, with its vibrant youth cultures that embraces politics, gay love and racism. Its 1977, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebrations are silencing other voices. When a young man is murdered in a local park, Pirate DJs Chris (Valentine Nonyela) and Caz (Mo Sesay) are shattered. He was not only a close friend but seemed to have been killed while cruising in the local park. Caz is secretly gay and hiding it. Chris is a relationship with his girlfriend Tracy (Sophie Okonedo) but failing big time at getting a serious job. When Caz enters into a relationship with gay punk Billibud (Jason Durr), it splits both races. Add to this the National Front starting to stir up trouble in the black community, with then police in support. Things might turn bloody.

Issac Julien film reflects how are nation today is poised. Recession, tensions, anger and apathy. He extracts the genuine simmering tensions at the heart of 1977 nation. Rationalising the nastiness of the rising National Front groups, with the growing diversity at the heart of this nations growth. My parents stood up against the Nazi’s in Lewisham. He reflects that part of the society. Black voices became able to ask questions thanks to growing unity. He reflects this. He also honestly exposes the issues still troubling us to this date. From police racism, community apathy but underscored with the power of music.

YOUNG SOUL REBELS is iconic. The BFI disc has a newly remastered print by the BFI that looks lovely. Cinema worthy colour correction and lushness with crisp image and tone. The audio commentary from Julien and Kellgren, with a nice tip toe step moderation from William Fowler, is revealing. Talk about examining the visuals. It allows Julien a chance to revisit and reflect with Kellgren enabling thoughts about the frame. Its very, very good and as the main substantial piece on the disc, it provides illumination.

• Audio commentary with director Isaac Julien and cinematographer Nina Kellgren, moderated by the BFI’s William Fowler
• Press materials and original script
• Image gallery
• Original theatrical trailer
• Newly created optional English subtitles for the Deaf and hard of hearing
• Newly created optional audio description track
• **FIRST PRESSING ONLY** Illustrated booklet featuring a new essay by Alex Ramon, archival writing on the film, director biography and cast and credits