The story of a 1970s youth culture which changed a generation.
No longer satisfied with the prospect of a small-town life and a factory production line, two young boys dream of going to America to discover rare records that will help them become the best DJ’s on the scene. This journey forces them to confront rivalry, violence and drug abuse and their friendship is tested to the limit. This is Northern Soul.
"Funny and feisty, gritty and sometimes grim, this first feature from the photographer Elaine Constantine delivers a sweaty snapshot of a very specific time and place." – New York Times
This screening will be followed by a post-screening discussion with Northern Soul director Elaine Constantine, in conversation with artist and filmmaker Jeanie Finlay.
- Director: Elaine Constantine
- Cast: Elliot James Langridge, Antonia Thomas, Steve Coogan
- Language: English
Northern Soul—Clio Barnard curates a special season at Pictureville dedicated to northern female filmmaking.
Northern Soul is a celebration of northern women in cinema—as writers, directors, producers, characters and trailblazers. Presented at Pictureville, the season is curated for Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture by Clio Barnard, the West Yorkshire-raised writer-director of The Arbor, centred on Bradford writer Andrea Dunbar, The Selfish Giant and Ali & Ava.
The selections in Northern Soul span six decades, from a 60s British New Wave classic to the latest feature from one of our most exciting directors. They transport us everywhere from the Yorkshire Moors to the Wigan Casino, Blackpool Beach to the North East. And together, they showcase the diversity of perspective, experience and imagination that defines the northern female voice in film.
Northern Soul is part of Bradford: A City of Film, a programme of independent film across the Bradford District. Co-Produced by Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture and National Science and Media Museum with the support of the BFI, awarding funds from the National Lottery.