Babylon: Revisited with Jazz Jamaica

Watch the classic film with live music performed by Jazz Jamaica, followed by a conversation with composer Dennis Bovell, whose experiences partly inspired it.

Set in 1980s South London, during the rise of reggae and the decline of punk, against the backdrop of Margaret Thatcher’s government, Babylon tells the story of Blue, a young Jamaican sound system DJ in Brixton, who dreams of making it big in the music industry.

But as he navigates a world of racism, police brutality and systemic oppression, his hopes and dreams are constantly challenged. Babylon is a raw and unflinching portrayal of the realities faced by Black British youth in the 1980s.

Presented in association with BFI, this screening features Dennis Bovell’s music played live by Tomorrow’s Warriors Jazz Jamaica, followed by a conversation with Bovell about the making of the film and his personal experiences of Sound Systems, music and South London in the 1980s.

This event is part of Dance Your Way Home.

The ticket price includes a £2 venue restoration levy.

Presented by Southbank Centre.

This is an 16+ event