Playing Away

15

The villagers of Seddington, led by liberal Marjorie Matthews, invite the Caribbean Brixton Conquistadors to their green and pleasant land for a cricket match to commemorate African Famine Week.

The villagers, split along class lines, are not at all happy about this, convinced that the Conquistadors are liable to bring drugs and rioting to Seddington. The Conquistadors set off on the road to Seddington, alien territory which leaves them lost and confused. Arriving to a brass band and village reception, their presence immediately destabilises the delicate class structure holding Seddington together. Led by Ian, the young working-class boys become resentful of the attention paid to the newcomers both by the local girls and the gentry.

Would-be local bigwig, Derek dismisses the one-trick pace bowling strategy of the Conquistadors, but suspects that socially they have the capacity to overthrow all he holds dear. The match will be the ground on which all will seek their own redemption. 

The film will be introduced by Imruh Bakari, and followed by a casual audience discussion with Imruh Bakari and June Givanni. 

This screening is ran by the June Givanni PanAfrican Cinema Archive who will be presenting an exhibition of materials in the Hyde Park Picture House Community Room on the same day 12pm - 5pm, free to all. More information here.