PRIDE

Relying solely on his material, a terrific script by Stephen Beresford and a bevy of flawless performances, theatre director Matthew Warchus, (this is only his second film), has made in "Pride" the best feel-good gay movie since "Beautiful Thing" as well as a powerful piece of political manoeuvering in much the same vein as "Brassed Off". In 1984 a small group of lesbian and gay activists based in London decided to raise money for the Welsh miners during Britain's almost year long miner's strike. It was an uphill struggle; they had to battle the miner's homophobia for a start but their determination and their winning personalities won the day. As we know, the miners lost but out of this alliance a bond between the Trade Union movement and gay rights groups was forged that still exists to this day.


To enjoy "Pride", and it is a hugely enjoyable film, a knowledge of the events portrayed isn't any more necessary than being gay, a miner or even particularly left-wing in your beliefs. This is a humanist entertainment that is as funny as it is moving. It doesn't shy away from issues like homophobia and AIDS but its ultimate message is entirely positive. In a superb cast it's only fair to single out Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Dominic West, (he's centre stage in one of the films two great musical interludes), Paddy Considine and Andrew Scott. Of the younger cast members George MacKay as a young activist coming to terms with his homosexuality, edges out his co-star and the film's ostensible male lead Ben Schnetzer but then almost everyone on screen makes their mark in what is a great ensemble. I can already see it seizing a slew of BAFTA nominations next year. Hopefully it will also make it across the Atlantic. British cinema has built up a good relationship with Oscar and there is no reason why "Pride" can't continue that relationship; it really is that good.